Fighting for My Dad — John Rich

Hi, my name is Caitlin Rich,

I'm raising funds to support my dad, John Rich, who is currently facing the fight of his life.

John is battling congestive heart failure, COPD, vascular dementia, and has recently been diagnosed with small lymphocytic B-cell lymphoma and Waldenström’s Macroglobulinemia — a rare and aggressive blood cancer.

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A Man Who Always Showed Up

My dad has always been a rock in my life. — strong, kind, and deeply supportive. He’s the one who taught me how to work with my hands, how to face life’s challenges head-on, and how to keep going when things get tough.

He’s a big man with an even bigger heart, and it breaks mine to watch him suffer. I want to give him the care, comfort, and dignity he deserves — but I can’t do it alone.

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I'm His Full-Time Caregiver

For the past two years, I’ve been my dad’s primary caregiver. Every day, I help him with meals, medications, doctor’s appointments, and the many challenges that come with his illnesses. He struggles with mobility, memory, and overwhelming fatigue — yet still tries to stay hopeful.

I'm also working to complete my apprenticeship, build a stable life with my partner and stepson, and recover from my own past. I’m a domestic violence survivor, and during my second year of apprenticeship, I nearly lost my life. With hard work, community, and my dad’s support, I got sober and rebuilt — but now I’m carrying more than I can handle alone.

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Why We Need Help

We were not financially prepared for what this would take. Between hospital stays, cancer treatments, medications, supplies, and everyday bills, the costs are piling up fast. I'm now responsible for both my life and my dad’s — and we’re falling behind.

Our goal is to raise $10,000 to help us cover:

• Chemotherapy and treatment-related expenses

• Medical equipment and caregiving supplies

• Hospital bills and insurance gaps

• Food, transportation, and basic living costs

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How You Can Help

If you can donate — no matter how much — it will make a meaningful difference. And if you can’t donate, please consider sharing this campaign with others.

Your support means more than I can say. Every dollar helps lighten the load. Every share helps spread hope. And every kind message reminds us that we are not alone.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for standing with us.

With love and gratitude,

Caitlin Rich