My father, James DeGroat, has been battling Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma since September 17th. On his birthday, September 26th, he was put in the hospital; where he stayed for 9 days. We were relieved when he was released Sunday October 4th; only to see him back in the ER just 4 days later. Bon Secours determined he needed to go to Westchester ER where he was treated and admitted for further care and testing. 

He was diagnosed with Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma. He had to have his spleen removed and shortly after due to an air bubble and perforation, he had to have part of his intestines removed.  The pathology report shows that the cancer has spread to his intestines and that is what caused the perforation.

He was battling a yeast infection from an antibiotic that was given to him. 

His heart stopped for 10 minutes due to mucus blocking his throat, thus depriving him of oxygen and he had to be revived. He was on a respirator with a suction tube and a feeding tube as well. 

The cancer spread further in his intestines and to his lymph nodes. He was still unable to keep his airways open on his own. Soon his lactic acid levels were elevated. And from being in the hospital for so long, he got pneumonia. 

It was a family decision, based on previos talks with my father before he even became ill, to let him go. The official cause of death is Respiratory Failure due to Complications from Lymphoma. 

Two months ago, none of us ever would have thought it would come to this. But daddy went peacefully and painlessly surrounded by the people who loved him most. 

My mom is now left with medical bills from the 51 days he was hospitalized and with the bills to keep their home.

If you can find it in your heart to help, we thank you.

Thank you to our supportive and caring friends.