John Rich's Memorial & Medical Fund

This is written by Rachelle (John's sister)

On Monday, November 29, 2021 my brother, John Robert passed away at the very young age of 45. He leaves behind his wife Kim; Adult Children: James, Madison, Alexander and Annelisse; Grandchildren: Anastasia, Pyper, and Luke. As well was the rest of us- his beautiful extended family.

 

John was, and in our memories will remain, a mighty fighter who lived life loving all of us around him. He was the light that brightened your day. He was the friend that never left your side. He was the little brother that always wanted to be in the thick of things. John was who he was on this earth because of his love for family, friends, and the Lord.

 

He battled the last 18 years of his life with Hemochromatosis, a genetic disease. Because of his long terminal illness his medical bills (even with insurance) are through the roof. You can help give some financial relief to his family through any size of financial support. Because of you and your generosity his family will have the comfort knowing that his legacy is living on.

 

John's story: In January of 2004 at the age of 27, John was diagnosed with a genetic disease, Hemochromatosis. But this is where his story differs from most- at the time he was one of the youngest ever to be diagnosed with such a disease. This disease's normal pattern is diagnosed during mid-life to late-life stages. In a mild case you can live a pretty normal life, but with a severe case, such as John's it's a life of struggle. They say the disease (if severe) has a lifespan of about 20 years, but in our case, it took John away form us 18 years later.

 

For those last 18 years John lived life to the best of his physical ability. he never complained, he never asked for special treatment, he never let his health issues stop him. One of the hardest parts of life to watch form the outside was seeing how strong he was even while the disease was relentless on his health (liver failure, kidney failure, diabetes, neuropathy, double stroke, congestive heart failure).

 

Through it all, this is not what you saw when you liked at this man. You saw courage, strength, musician, prayer warrior and an extreme love for his family and for people. He was determined to live the best possible life. And reflecting back, I think he did the best with what life offered.

 

As there is so much more I could share about this amazing man I was privileged to have as my brother, I'll stop here. I am humbled to know that we have such amazing friends and family our there who have supported John along this journey. I thank each and everyone of you for the place you had in his life. And look forward to continuing John's legacy of love for family and love for people.

 

With my sincerest gratitude,

Rachelle R. Blackewll

Sister to the best brother a girl could have