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Rally for Richie Wendt: Aid in His Recovery Journey

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Help Support Richie in His Time of Need
Richie is currently facing one of the biggest challenges of his life. He was recently hospitalized for a serious diabetic foot ulcer that became infected and resistant to oral antibiotics. The infection required surgery that removed one-third of his heel, and he is now using a wound VAC to support healing. In the coming weeks, Richie will also need skin grafting and physical therapy to help him regain mobility and learn to walk properly again. He is battling Peripheral Vascular Disease, Coronary Artery Disease, and is an insulin-dependent Type 2 diabetic. Because of these serious complications, Richie will be unable to return to work for a long time and will require extensive follow-up care.
For over 30 years, Richie has been a dedicated and hardworking supervisor at Troiano Fuel Oil Company, specializing in HVAC and oil burners. His incredible work ethic, vast knowledge, and commitment to his craft made him an invaluable part of the company. He has always been the person others could count on—whether it was mentoring younger workers, taking on the toughest jobs, or being there when an emergency struck.
A Man Who Has Always Given to Others
Richie is not just a hardworking professional—he is an incredible friend, a loyal brother, and an active member of his community. He volunteered for the local football league, where he gave his time and passion to support young athletes, and he also contributed his photography skills to capture their greatest moments. His love for photography has been one of the many ways he has enriched the lives of those around him.
A lifelong resident of Valley Stream, Richie raised his son, Nicholas, in this same community and has always been there for his friends and neighbors. To this day, he remains incredibly close to the childhood friends he grew up with over 50 years ago—a testament to his loyalty, kindness, and ability to build lasting relationships.
Richie is also the middle child of five siblings—with two older brothers and two younger sisters. We all grew up within just seven years of each other, forming an unbreakable bond. As a family, we’ve always stood by one another, and now, we are coming together to support Richie during this difficult time.
Why Richie Needs Your Support
Richie is one of the most independent people you’ll ever meet—someone who has always worked hard, taken care of himself, and never asked for help. But now, as he faces this difficult period of healing, he needs a helping hand.
Without savings to fall back on, he is struggling to cover basic expenses like:
Rent and utilities
Transportation to and from medical appointments
Food and daily necessities
Medical supplies and ongoing wound care needs
As his family, friends, and community, we have the opportunity to step in and lighten his burden. No donation is too small—every little bit helps and will go directly toward his essential living and medical expenses while he focuses on getting back to health.
How You Can Help
Donate – Any amount will make a difference in helping Richie through this challenging time.
Share – If you can’t donate, please consider sharing this with others who may be able to help.
Richie has spent his life taking care of others—now, let’s rally around him and show him the same kindness he has always given.
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    Organizer

    Christine Balian
    Organizer
    Valley Stream, NY

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