Pitching in for Ruth and Phil

Our friends Ruth and Phil Bumala have always been actively engaged in their community. They’re unwavering in their devotion to help wherever they can, whether through their church, their local schools, or as caring friends and neighbors. They have raised their two children, Kathryn and Christian, now young adults, to be the same and it’s always been a joy to be with their family. There’s a long list of us who have been fortunate beneficiaries of the kind, open-hearted way they treat everyone they meet.

 

Since his first four years ago, Phil has had several strokes that have debilitated his speech and movement. At a gathering over Labor Day weekend, Ruth drove him over 200 miles round trip to join us for an afternoon and evening. The toll that Phil’s strokes have taken on him was evident as he maneuvered, with help, from walker to wheelchair. We could tell that it meant a lot to him to be with friends even though he could not express his emotions. It’s a difficult time for a man who is still only in his 60s.

 

Ruth retired in 2020 from a dedicated career as an elementary school teacher. Perhaps she might have taught a bit longer, but she needed to be home with Phil. By his side 24 hours a day, she helps him with the day-to-day chores we all manage for ourselves without giving them a thought. Their children and friends pitch in, but it eventually falls on her to cope with managing their home and Phil's medical needs. Since his first hospitalization he hasn't been able to work, and it no doubt strains their finances as they deal with living expenses, medical procedures, medications, and equipment. Easing that burden will take some pressure off of them both, especially since they will soon need to move to a different home to simplify his care.

 

Please join us in contributing to this GoFundMe to help Ruth and Phil over what must be highly challenging financial hurdles as they deal with his continuing health issues. Let's make life a little easier for them both. No matter what amount you can donate, it will be beneficial and greatly appreciated. Thank you for your kind support.