Memorial Fund for Philip Cuomo

 

Hi there,

 

Thank you so much for taking the time to consider supporting Philip Cuomo and Maureen Porter at this time of great need. My name is Isaac Lamb and I am Philip and Maureen's godson, nephew, colleague and friend. I'll try to briefly summarize the situation that Philip is in and give you some backstory as to how we got to this point. If you already feel caught up then I invite you to go ahead and give any amount you can to support this extraordinary man and his extraordinary partner in this most challenging time.

 

For going on two years Philip has been battling what at first seemed to be a rare auto-immune disorder but which we now know is actually Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma of the primary nervous system. It has been a long and arduous journey navigating both the symptoms and discomfort of the disease but also the challenges and inadequacies of our healthcare system, particularly during the pandemic. As you must already know, Maureen has been the very definition of the ideal partner throughout and continues to advocate and care for Philip in ways that surpass belief. Their's has been a love story for the ages and this arduous journey has been no exception. May we all be blessed with a Maureen Porter when the rubber hits the road.

 

In so many ways, Philip has surpassed expectations and beaten the odds, and even though the cancer is aggressive he continues to amaze us all with his fortitude and good humor. One of his lifelong mottos has been, "Stop. Find Joy!" In so many difficult moments on this journey he has done just that. It is miraculous. But as you can imagine, this disease has taken its toll physically, spiritually, and financially on both Philip and Maureen. Our social safety net remains weak and full of holes, and there is a host of mounting bills - medical and otherwise - which will continue to accrue through whatever comes next. And while they will undoubtedly meet the next hardships with trademark good humor and fortitude, there remains a great need for financial support.

 

Maureen and Philip are so moved by the outpouring of love they've felt from all corners of their lives - family, friends, the theatre community - and they would want me to communicate their gratitude. It can be humbling to ask for help. But I know the depth of feeling, the great reserve of love that exists for these two remarkable human beings, who have spent so much of their time, energy, and hearts lifting up and caring for others. I know that so many of you have been waiting for an opportunity to return that goodwill to them. And so I humbly ask you to give what you can. Even the smallest donation will go a long way toward easing, even slightly, the inhumane burden that they both continue to carry.

 

From the bottom of my heart, I thank you.

If you'd like to stay updated on Philip and Maureen's journey follow their Caring Bridge site here: https://bit.ly/3C2GFV5

 

All my love and gratitude,

Isaac Lamb