I am a retired NYC firefighter and a survivor of two 9/11-related cancers, but today, I am asking for help for my brother, Bruce. Last year, Bruce was diagnosed with a serious blood disorder and was told he needed a bone marrow transplant to survive. At the time, he was receiving blood transfusions every two weeks to maintain his health. Bruce was admitted to the hospital in October 2025, expecting a one-month stay followed by a two-month stay at Hope Lodge hosted by the American Cancer Society.

Complications began almost immediately. An infection led to a brain bleed, resulting in blood clots that could not be treated with blood thinners due to the brain hemorrhage.

Hope Lodge requires a caregiver stay with the patient. Bruce’s daughters—one living in Rhode Island and the other in Switzerland—rearranged their lives, traveled back and forth, and took on the role of caregivers. Recovery seemed to be moving forward, and discharge was planned for early February when Bruce developed a severe infection that caused widespread complications. He was readmitted to the hospital, where he remains. Additional testing revealed another serious infection, requiring stronger and prolonged antibiotic treatment.

These complications have now affected his kidneys, causing severe fluid retention with painful leg swelling, making even basic movement difficult. Additional treatment, along with ongoing care, will cost over $20,000.

Much of Bruce’s career was in service-based roles where income depended on tips, so he continued working as a school bus driver, a job he loved because of the children. Sadly, it is very unlikely he will be able to return to work.

Taking pride in supporting ourselves, we have been overwhelmed by the financial and emotional toll. Please consider donating to Bruce.

Thank you for your kindness, support, and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.