Just a short time ago Neal Pavone was ringing in 2017 with his wife and very dear friends; looking forward to a blessed and prosperous New Year. Less than one week later as he headed to work he noticed muscle weakness in his left leg. Unable to walk a straight path across his front walkway, he drifted to the left. Not thinking much of it he proceeded to work and went about his day. After a quick doctor's visit a few days later, he was diagnosed with an inner ear infection, believed to be the root cause of an equilibrium problem. He was treated with prescription antibiotics. However, as the days went on he continued to experience increased weakness on the left side of his body. The issue grew to the point he could no longer walk without assistance.

On Sunday, January 15 Neal was taken to Rochester General Hospital by ambulance. Within hours it was determined that he had an unidentifiable "mass" in his brain (behind his right eye). As the days went by Neal continued to lose muscle control on his left side and now no longer has use of his left arm or leg.  On Tuesday, January 24 Neal underwent a biopsy. After two hours of surgery he was taken to the ICU to recover and await pathology results. Two days later with his family by his side, Neal learned that the mass was a Grade IV tumor, diagnosed as Glioblastoma (GBM) an incurable form of brain cancer. He was further informed that his condition was highly advanced and aggressive, and could progress within a matter of weeks... although his family now prays for months.

At this time, Neal continues to recover at Rochester General Hospital. He hopes to be discharged soon, return home, and begin treatment. Aside from muscle weakness, Neal never experienced any other symptoms, however doctors believe he could have been living with this tumor for up to one year. Because of the advanced and aggressive nature of the tumor, he hopes to begin treatment as soon as possible. A combination of radiation and chemotherapy are being considered. Neal is working with his family and doctors to develop the most optimal treatment plan to both extend his days and maintainin a good quality of life. Neal hopes to begin treatment as early as Wednesday, February 1.

Because of the drastic and devastating change to Neal's life this gofundme page has been established to keep friends and loved ones informed of his condition. The added hope is to help aid Neal and his family with the financial needs to support both his treatment and the days to follow.

Neal's family will make every effort to provide updates regarding his condition however, at this time they ask for patience and understanding with regard to visitation. Please know that at this time, Neal is experiencing little pain, is in good spirits and is finding joy in every moment he's able to spend with his wife Cindi, his three daugheters and their husbands, and his four beloved grandchildren.  The days to come will be a challenge for all but for now the family hopes you will continue to send your prayers and well wishes to the man we all love....... our love, our dad, our "Papa".

[Campaign note: For the purpose of full transparency, Neal's youngest daughter and Power of Attorney, Lisa Griffin will be managing the appropriation of all funds raised by this campaign]