Love, Help & Support for Phil

It is with sad hearts that Stephen and I make this request for help with medical and living expenses for our brother, Phillip Johnnene.  His whole adult life Phillip has been battling serious medical issues starting with kidney failure and dialysis in his twenties, a kidney transplant in his thirties and serious battles with three different cancers in the decades that followed.

Through all of this suffering Philip never gave up-- fighting for his life, finding joy in everyday things like spending time with family and friends, good music, a good gin, and when he was able, playing golf.  Working as a CPA to support himself and his family he remained optimistic and grounded in faith and a future together for himself and the love of his life, his wife Brenda. 

About 18 months ago Phillip’s transplanted kidney failed and he went back on dialysis. He then discovered the prostate cancer he thought he had beat had aggressively returned and spread to his bones and spine.  Like always, Philip met this newest medical challenge head on, with hope and perseverance.  With dialysis 3 days a week, as well as additional cancer treatments, he maintained his hectic 5-6 day workweek all while trying to enjoy time with his family.  

We were hopeful that Phil, as he has so many times before, would pull through this latest cancer battle to beat this aggressive cancer.  We now know this time that is not going to happen.  

At the beginning of August it become impossible for Phillip to continue working, and Brenda recently had to stop working to care for Phil.  Phillip has been told he qualifies for SSDI, but he did not apply until after he stopped working, so he and his family are left without any income for about 3 months until the SSDI payments start. 

Phil is an incredible husband, stepfather, grandfather, brother, and friend.  He (and Brenda) have shown faith, unity, strength and the true  meaning of hope and love in how they dealt with the decades of illness and pain.  But sadly, Phil's simple dream - to grow old together with Brenda and sit in rockers holding hands on the porch of their home – will not be a reality.  

 

But with your help, Phillip and Brenda can spend the precious little time they have left together, without the worry of how to cover medical and living expenses with no income.    We know this is a hard time for everyone due to Covid-19, but if you can help, we, Phillip, Brenda and their family, would appreciate any donation you can offer.  We thank you for your kindness, prayers, love and support. 

Stephen & Roberta