Rotator Cuff surgery taking me down!

Hello my friends,

Last week I found out that I need Rotator Cuff Surgery. Seems I have one complete tear, several partial tears and more... It is on my right shoulder, my dominate arm of course! This surgery is going to knock me down and keep its foot on my chest so I can't get up. My doctor has told me that this is a very painful operation with a long recovery time.

I moved to Dallas with my son 12 years ago from Los Angeles to manage a theater in Dallas. At the time my son was in the 3rd grade and four days after we arrived, he started school and I started working. The next 11 years were chaotic between working and raising my son as a single parent. I was either in the theater or being as involved as I could with my son.... Marching Band Dad crew, etc....

I survived Esophageal Cancer, Prostate Cancer, total knee replacement and major surgeries. I moved my mother to Dallas when she was unable to care for herself anymore. She was with me for three years before her passing. During this time my son was in Middle School and he would take care of my mom in the evenings when I had to work. He would pick her up when she fell and would talk with her. I was in New York producing The King and I and during a rehearsal with Rachel York and Alan Ariano, I get a phone call that my mom is on her way to the hospital in an ambulance. These were difficult times.

After leaving my job of 11 years, I have been working on taking care of myself and my son. I have been driving for my friends at LYFT and it has made it possible to keep up with bills and recently resume my mortgage payments. After surgery I will not have this option.

My son is growing into a fine young man. Earlier this year he told me that he was going to get an apartment with a friend and get a job. He told me he just wanted to learn how to be independent. Proud dad! He is doing well and not reliant on me, at the moment.

I am asking my friends for help because after my surgery I will not be able to work for a few months. I am concerned about losing what I have worked so hard for. I don’t know what else to do, except ask my friends for help.

I am fortunate to have so many friends that I’ve know for so many years.

Thank you for your help!

David Hamlin