Dear Friends and Family,
 
Thank you for taking the time to learn about Daryl Richardson’s journey as a cancer survivor and the ways that you can support this brave family.
 
For those of you who have the pleasure of knowing the Richardsons, it is unnecessary to explain how loving, giving, and selfless of a family they are. I've known the Richardsons for several years and can personally say that they have been an immense blessing to know as they tirelessly invest in their community and know that countless others can attest to similar experiences.

About two months ago, Daryl had a colonoscopy which revealed colon cancer.  
 
After this devastating diagnosis, it was two full months before they had an available surgery time. This invasive and intense surgery removed a whole 9" of Daryl's colon, including a large cancerous polyp.
 
 A biopsy of Daryl's lymph nodes came back clear - the cancer had not metastasized to his lymph nodes. Currently, Daryl is waiting to meet with the oncologist to see if more treatment is recommended.
 
We praise God for this successful surgery and for the hard work of their surgeon. It is difficult to convey the joy the family felt when their doctor called to give them the news that Daryl is now a brave cancer survivor.
 
However, as we celebrate this news, the Richardson family has been left with an immense financial burden in the wake of this battle with cancer.

On his doctor’s orders, Daryl is unable to go back to work for 4-6 weeks, which is especially difficult as Daryl is the sole provider of his family and Michelle is a dedicated homeschool mom. Daryl is a self-employed chiropractor, which means the family will have no income for at least a month.
 
The family’s out of pocket medical expenses for the cancer surgery are approximately $7,000 for this year’s deductible. In addition to this, Daryl's monthly business expenses continue even though he is not working.

While no family would ever ask to go through such a difficult journey, we excitedly anticipate all of the ways that God will continue to make His goodness known and abundantly provide for the needs of this family.

I think of Daryl as a present day George Bailey because I can’t help but see how priceless he has been to his community. Similar to the character of George Bailey in It's a Wonderful Life, I can see how many lives would not be the same without Daryl’s involvement. To give you an idea of how he has invested in others I’ve made a list, which is by no means comprehensive:

* Daryl and Michelle have served in many areas at Grace Chapel for more than 15 years, including teaching preschool and kindergarten Sunday schools, as well as, organizing and leading Grace Chapel's family camping and picnic trips. 

* Daryl leads a Men’s Bible Study, a Community Group, is involved in the Men’s ministry team, and teaches Jr High Sunday school.  (Michelle served in the nursery as well as making and delivering meals with the Loaves and Fishes ministries).

* Daryl is a valuable coach at Set Apart, the speech and debate club.  He attends club meetings every Monday, teaches Apologetics, and serves in the Tabulation department at various tournaments.  (Michelle serves as host home coordinator, new family mentor, ballot push coordinator, ballot return assistant, among other roles.)

* Daryl has coached Little League Baseball.

* Michelle, Daryl’s wife has also served on the Desert CHEA board for 10 years, and worked in various roles such as director, hospitality, event planner, preforming arts choreographer, classroom teacher, field trip planner, treasurer, newsletter, graduation, and prom.
 
As a community we have the privilege to give back to this family who has so selflessly invested in those around them. I am inspired by their faith and joy through this trial. Anything you can offer helps relieve this burden, whether it be through prayer that Daryl will continue to be cancer free or through a financial contribution.
 
Thank you for taking the time to read through! God bless, Lynda Stefani