My name is Nicole and my Uncle Rick was diagnosed with Leukemia in August 2022. Due to his diagnosis, he has been unable to work and earn any funds to cover his rapidly increasing medical bills, as well as maintain his minimal living expenses, including rent, utilities, food, and gas. While he does have Social Security funds coming in, it is barely enough to cover his monthly living expenses plus the increasing medical costs. He would love to be able to work again but it is unlikely he will be able return to work as he had prior to this horrible disease. My uncle has worked with his hands his whole life, focusing mainly on boat upholstery and mechanics. He found a lot of joy being able to create and build things as well as rejuvenating old boats and antique autos. Unfortunately, this horrible disease has derailed his future. Currently he is unable to make it to the end of the driveway due to his complete lack of energy.

Leukemia is a cancer of the blood. He is currently undergoing chemo treatment, and then will be getting a stem cell transplant at the City of Hope. These days he sees his doctor at least 2 times per week, where they test his blood counts. Since his first stay in the hospital mid July 2022, before his diagnosis, he has had 16 blood transfusions. So far, he has been hospitalized 6 times when these levels get too low or if he is fighting off an infection. He is currently going through his second dose of chemo treatment and trying to replenish his good bacteria that were lost with the last stay in the hospital because of an infection. He stays with family during some of these precarious times so he can be taken to ER if needed.

He is grateful for the care and prayers from his family and friends. He is very optimistic of the outcome. The funds will be used to help with his daily living expenses and medical expenses that will constantly be ongoing.

We are forever grateful for any donations of any size; every bit counts! Please donate blood to the Red Cross, they are truly life savers. Also, look into BetheMatch.org to donate bone marrow or stem cells. You can save a life!

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