Hi, my name is Mariah, and I am the daughter of Chris Stacey, my amazing 53-year-old dad.

In June of this year, our lives changed forever. What was first thought to be gallbladder issues quickly turned into something much more devastating. After a visit to Belleville hospital, my dad was told he needed surgery, but being the hardworking man he is, he signed himself out so he could finish his work week and make rent. He worked in agony for an entire week before turning completely jaundiced and was rushed to Kingston on June 28th.

On August 7th, he went in for an attempted Whipple surgery that we were told could cure his cancer. But once the surgeons opened him up, they discovered it had already spread to his liver. That automatically placed him at Stage 4 pancreatic cancer and left us with the heartbreaking reality that his diagnosis is now palliative.

My dad has always been a provider, a man who lived paycheck to paycheck as a seasonal worker but always made sure those around him were taken care of. Now, the roles have reversed. The outcome of surgery has left him relying on medical EI, which is only a fraction of his usual income and capped at 26 weeks. His disability application was met with a 9–12 month wait time (even with explaining the time line given on his palliative diagnosis) and in the meantime, the only option offered was welfare at just $730/month.

Despite everything, my dad’s stubborn, fighting spirit has him even talking about going back to work — with a palliative diagnosis. He should not have to battle financial stress while facing something this devastating.

This GoFundMe is to help relieve SOME of that burden — to cover rent, bills, and basic living expenses so that he can focus on what matters most: his comfort, dignity, and the precious time he has left with his family and friends.

We are beyond grateful for any support, whether it’s through a donation, sharing this page, or simply keeping our family in your thoughts and prayers. Every bit helps give my dad peace of mind and the ability to spend his remaining time surrounded by love.