John Vendel Needs Your Help!

John’s Medical Story

John Vendel is a civil engineer and musician who has had a terrible streak of bad luck. He was diagnosed with a super aggressive variety of prostate cancer in March of 2021. After undergoing surgery, radiation, and two years of hormone therapy, John’s cancer began to subside, and he stopped treatment in June 2023. However, in February 2024, John began experiencing extreme back pain, which was ultimately diagnosed in July as widespread bone metastasis to his spine, torso, arms, legs, and skull, among other places.

The bone pain has been intolerable. The tumorous cancer lesions have damaged spinal nerves and caused John to become paraplegic. He no longer has the use of his legs, and the paralysis has gradually progressed further up his torso. He is in constant pain and needs assistance with most activities of daily living.

After taking leave of employment in July 2024, John applied for disability income through his employer but was DENIED. The carrier, Prudential, deemed the return of the cancer to be a “pre-existing condition,” and therefore informed John they would not be paying the claim.

With no income, no ability to work, walk, or play his drums, John’s luck has not improved. He’s trying to resume cancer treatment (chemotherapy) in an attempt to extend his life, but comorbidities from a compromised immune system in addition to being bed-bound have continued to complicate matters. John’s been back to the hospital for treatment of pneumonia as well as a stage 4 ulcerous bed sore that also infected his bones.

What’s Next for John

John was discharged to home on December 9th and is trying to adapt to his condition. He needs modifications to his house to support his needs:

The cost of these accessibility features is high and not covered by insurance. If you are able to pitch in, we would greatly appreciate it. John would NEVER ask for this kind of help himself, but his loving family recognizes he has touched the lives of many and has a lot of friends who would love to help him in any way they can. We believe what he needs most now is additional resources to improve his life and be as comfortable as possible as he adjusts to life with terminal cancer.

WE ARE GRATEFUL FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

OTHER WAYS TO DONATE

If you'd rather donate via Venmo, Zelle, or write a check to John, please contact brother Jim for instructions.