Help Richard Recover after a Horrific 500 plus Bee Attack

Our dad, Richard, 78 years old, recently endured something truly unimaginable. While visiting Mexico, he was viciously attacked and stung over 500 times by Africanized "killer" bees.

It started as a normal morning — he had gone out to breakfast, and his beloved dog was waiting in the back of his truck. When he returned, he found his dog completely engulfed in a swarm of bees. In a selfless act of love, he rushed to save his dog and was immediately overtaken by the swarm himself. ( the dog did not make it)

That day, 11 people were medically evacuated due to the attack, but Richard received the brunt of it. Stung over 500 times, he was in critical condition. We got the phone call no family ever wants to receive: Richard was being medically evacuated from Mexico to the U.S. border, and they didn’t believe he would survive the three-hour drive. By the time he arrived at the border, his chances of survival were heartbreakingly slim.

Against all odds, he fought to stay alive. But the attack has left him with severe injuries and life-altering complications. Even now, more than two months later, he struggles to walk, care for himself, or perform the simplest daily tasks.

The road to recovery has been devastating — physically, emotionally, and financially. Our family has made countless trips to advocate for him, speak with doctors, and track down his personal belongings. When he was transferred across the border, he arrived with nothing but his passport and VA cards — not even a change of clothes. We have traveled back and forth to San Felipe, Mexico; El Centro, California; and a rehabilitation facility in Yuma, Arizona, and another facility in Monterey CA. And soon to his son’s house in Utah. All to ensure he gets the care he needs and deserves.

These trips, along with his mounting medical bills, have cost our family thousands of dollars. On top of that, his ongoing rehabilitation and specialized care are creating an overwhelming financial burden that continues to grow.

We are starting this GoFundMe to humbly ask for help on Richard’s behalf. Your support — whether through a donation, prayers, or simply sharing this page — will go directly toward his medical expenses, rehabilitation, and essential living needs. It will also help us continue to advocate for him and cover the costs of the many trips required to ensure he is never alone on this difficult journey.

From the depths of our hearts, thank you for taking the time to read Richard’s story. Your kindness and generosity mean more to us than words can express, and we are forever grateful for any support you are able to give.

with all our hearts, the Mockabee family.