Papa’s Cancer Journey

Hi, my name is Alyssa and I am fundraising for my grandpa (aka Papa), Richard, who is now 68 years old. Papa was born in Wahiawa, Hawaii and when he became of age joined the United States Air Force and served overseas in Korea. Upon returning home from his completing his service, he made his roots here in Arizona. Papa is a father of two (and a daughter in law), grandfather of 3, and has been married to my grandma (aka Memaw) for 49 years. He has held many jobs in his life, but in his last job he felt led to be a Security Guard at Grand Canyon University, a job he enjoyed every day.

 

In April of 2022, we received the heart-shattering news that Papa was diagnosed with lung cancer. Rather than retiring and beginning his fight with cancer, Papa continued to serve Grand Canyon University and fought back the pain until his health no longer allowed him to enjoy his days on campus.  

 

In May of 2022, Papa was then re-evaluated, and his diagnosis became worse as he was diagnosed with stage 4 terminal cancer; since his lung cancer metastasized (spread) to his liver, stomach, and his lymph nodes.  Unfortunately, Papa is not a surgical candidate because there are so many lesions, and the growth of his cancer continues. Papa has had to endure radiation therapy and now has completed five rounds of chemotherapy with very little improvements.

 

Those that know Papa have come to see that he is a very special person, he has been a devoted husband to my grandma (Memaw) for over 49 years, an unbelievably strong and loving father to his two sons, daughter-in-law, and his three grandchildren. Papa has always been the foundation of our family and has instilled in each and everyone of us the “Aloha Spirit”. His outlook on life has not changed and he continues to be the strength of our family. His humor and positivity remains unchanged even after having received the unfortunate diagnosis.

 

Papa, like many of us, had dreams of retirement and spending additional time with family, but more importantly spending his last days traveling with Memaw. The costs of medical supplies, medications, and future treatment options have placed significant stresses on him, and our family as financial security has been strained.

 

We are raising money to help Memaw and Papa pay for the medical expenses related to his treatment and to help build a financial safety net for the family. Additionally, we would like to grant one of Papa’s bucket list wishes to travel back home to Hawaii to see his siblings and friends. While we continue to remain optimistic and pray for Papa to overcome this fight against cancer, we're hoping to create some security to support the family, and bring some joy to his life so Papa can continue to put all his energy into kicking cancer’s a**!

 

Your generosity and prayers continue to encourage Papa and us in fighting this fight. We appreciate everyone's support and kindness throughout this time. As Papa would say…Mahalo ke Akua! (Thanks be to God!)