Rick Rennaker's Treatment for Multiple Myeloma

Hello, my name is Weslene Fernandez, and I am starting this fundraiser to help my uncle, Rick Rennaker, pay for treatment of his recently diagnosed Multiple Myeloma. After three long, hard weeks in the hospital, he can finally go home. Unfortunately, insurance only goes so far in covering the cost of medical care. Going forward, he will need all the help he can get to cover the cost of continued chemotherapy and the loss of income these treatments will incur.

Multiple Myeloma is a form of cancer that attacks the plasma cells in the blood, causing them to grow and divide. This type of cancer can lead to low blood counts (of red blood cells, white blood cells, and blood platelets), kidney failure, hypercalcemia (too much calcium in the blood being absorbed from the bones), hyperviscosity (thickening of the blood), increased chance of infections, and a few other symptoms. Rick was admitted to the ICU on Monday, November 13th, and dialysis was the first step they took in his treatment. This form of cancer is aggressive, so the doctors also began chemotherapy almost immediately after he was admitted to the hospital.

Rick is well-loved by EVERYONE who has gotten the pleasure of meeting him. His family, friends, coworkers, clients, and even the hospital's nurses and doctors know how unique and unforgettable my uncle is. He is one of the strongest, kindest, and most hilarious people on this green earth. His ability to make friends with anyone (and make them laugh until they pee) wherever he goes is unparalleled. If you've met him, you already know this.

On a personal note, my uncle was one of the only people there for me during a very tumultuous time in my life. His support was the thing that kept me afloat through the darkness. To me, he is a pillar of hope, compassion, and unconditional love. For those that haven't had the pleasure of meeting my uncle, I will be including statements from the people who love him most to give you some idea of how incredible he is.

Every penny, every well wish, and every prayer helps, so please share with whoever you can. My family and I are so grateful to anyone considering donating. Thank you so much!

“My father is the strongest, wisest, and bravest man that I've known my entire life. He taught me to be strong through the hardest of times, he taught me how to keep my faith alive even if things seem hopeless, and he gave me all the encouragement that I need to tackle whatever life throws at me. My entire personality came from him. I would have never found my passion for movies, comedy, music, or super heroes if it weren't for him. I would have never had my work ethic or my strength to carry forward no matter how painful things may be if it weren't for him. My Dad IS MY Super Hero! The Iron Man to my Spider-Man, the Master Splinter to my Leonardo, the Jango Fett to my Boba Fett. I am a Rennaker thick and thin, forever and always, and the GREATEST honor of my life will always be that I am the son of Rick Rennaker.”  -His son, Ricardo Rennaker/Ricky Jr.

“My brother Rick has taught me to never fear anything or anyone. He was my body guard growing up. I always felt so protected. He would always go to Chubby’s and get extra for the homeless. One time his refrigerator was filled with those lunchables and juice drinks. I said is that all you eat every day? He said he didn’t eat lunch that often, but he would drop those off to the homeless on his mail routes. He always gave to the poor. He would literally give you the jacket off of his back. I hope it pays forward during his time of need. He needs to get better so he can keep on giving back. I love him and I need him here forever!!!” -His sister, Lana

"Rick is down to earth, he knows where he's come from, loves his family and friends, and is someone who can be counted on. He isn't ashamed of shedding a tear for someone he loves. He's like a brother to me." -His cousin, Wayne

“Ricky was the toughest out of the 3 Musketeers. He was never afraid of anything. I think that's why he was the favorite ☺️” -His cousin, Jacque

”Rick has always been so kind to me. He’s a generous man with a big heart” -His cousin, Nikki