Rich Houghton Memorial

My name is Carla, and I'm fundraising for my big brother. Richie (51) was diagnosed with cancer in September 2021. After 7 YEARS of complaining of pain during urination, his doctor FINALLY did a scope and found cancer in his bladder. In October, the doctor removed his bladder and created a new bladder out of his intestines - a "neobladder." During the surgery, they found that the cancer had spread to his abdominal wall and lymph nodes, as well. His new diagnosis is stage 4 cancer. We were all relieved he was a candidate for the neobladder, because that meant he wouldn't need an ostomy bag instead. However, having the neobladder has been a very painful and difficult adjustment.

After the surgery, he began chemotherapy. A few treatments in, another scan showed the cancer had spread to his lungs. Rich and his doctor decided to stop chemo and get him in with a thoracic surgeon asap in order to get the cancer OUT. He is currently waiting for that appointment (Tuesday 1/11). We are praying for a surgery date this month.

In the meantime, Richie has not been able to work. He is an expert tile-setter with his own business. Since he is a one-man-crew, no money is coming in and several jobs have been lost. Hopefully, the customers realize his situation and will give him another chance once he is ready to work. For now, he can barely make it from the bed to the couch each morning. The medications and chemotherapy are giving him terrible side-effects, in addition to the neobladder complications. My sister-in-law, Chrissy, has been an angel by his side, helping him every step of the way. We are SO grateful that she is there to care for him every day. That also means she is unable to work.

The rest of the family has been doing what they can to help Richie, Chrissy, and their thirteen-year-old son make ends meet. Unfortunately, they have depleted their savings and still have a long road to recovery ahead. We have no idea when he will be well enough to work again. If you are able, please do what you can to help my brother pay his bills and put food on the table for his family while he struggles to beat cancer's ass!

Thank you for taking the time to listen to Richie's story. Prayers and positive vibes are much appreciated!

Carla and family