Support for my parents in their time of need

In a time when so many are experiencing difficulties and hardship, it feels almost impossible to reach out for help. But the reality is, my parents are some of the most generous and loving people and if you know them, you know that. After a lifetime of helping others in so many ways, they are now needing some help of their own.

About 11 years ago, my mom was diagnosed with cancer. I remember the day I found out with such intricate detail. It was awful. She suffered through all of the standard procedures, surgery, chemo, radiation…and was victorious! Only to find out she carried a cancer mutation gene, resulting in more surgery, more recovery and with that, another cancer diagnosis.

After completing her most recent cocktail of surgery, chemo and radiation, she was hopeful for some peace. Even if just for a little while. She was not so lucky. She found out she would be on a very expensive lifelong chemo maintenance medication that while keeping her cancer at bay, results in irreversible side effects that make the day to day extra strenuous.

My mom and dad have now switched roles and the caretaker is now the patient. My dad had bypass surgery that resulted in a lengthy and painful recovery. All the while unable to retire, and continues to work on his feet most days of the week. Finally feeling better, recovered, he is hit with his own cancer diagnosis. Which is heartbreaking to say the least. My dad is in the beginning stages of dealing with prostate cancer and has not even begun the treatment process. This means he will be unable to work his typical 6 days a week, and as one of very few employees that means work goes undone, and he will be thinking about everything else beside getting better especially the lack of income for he and my mom while he is going through treatment.

While dealing with their individual health battles, my parents are also struggling with their small business.

My dad and his dad started a dry cleaning business almost 40 years ago. He was able to keep his small staff working as safely as possible during the pandemic as they clean and service hospital drapery’s and were considered a necessity. When small businesses were struggling, his was staying afloat as much as possible and the people he employed for over 30 years were able to make money through a very uncertain time. He has worked so hard to keep things moving, but in recent years a family dispute with the business took away most of his life’s work and any financial security. All happening while my mom was going through cancer treatment.

After a lifetime of taking care of everyone around them, even those they do not know, they are now needing help more than ever. Not only will this help them with past and future medical bills, this will also allow my dad time to worry about his road to recovery for a bit.

After countless medical bills, insurance setbacks, personal and professional set backs they find themselves at a place they hadn’t expected, losing the home they have lived in since 1995. The home we grew up in, the place most of my family considered a safe space. While the loss of their home and quick move into a new apartment is hard, it’s what’s best for them in the long run. But still comes with many financial requirements and an aching heart.

Because of this move they could use any extra help possible. I wish I was in a place where I could give them what they deserve, but unfortunately I am not. We are just trying to help them get off to a good start in a their new home, cover medical expenses, and afford necessities while undergoing treatment.

Anything helps, thank you from the bottom of my families hearts. As stated previously, it’s a tough time for so many, and while there are no expectations here, I’m hoping some find the kindness in their hearts to help.

If you are unable to assist in this way but are looking for other options, they will be having an estate sale the 12th and 13th of April. Text for location. There is furniture, clothing, shoes, bikes, baby items and tons of home decor (lamps, artwork, etc). Come on by if you’re looking for some “new” stuff!