My name is Bill Westerlund, and I am reaching out with a humble and urgent request for support. In a matter of weeks, my life was upended by a wrongful termination from Del Mar Golf Center, a serious medical emergency, and the progression of a chronic illness. As a U.S. Army veteran, I've faced challenges before, but this convergence of crises has created a profound financial and physical burden. I am creating this fundraiser to ask for help with overwhelming medical, legal, and daily expenses during this critical time.
The Story:
The crisis began when I was abruptly and unjustly terminated from my teaching position at the Del Mar Golf Center in early November. This stressful event triggered a severe medical emergency, from the nervousness, anxiety and fear. On November 15th, I was rushed by ambulance to Scripps La Jolla after passing out from a painful blockage in my upper abdomen, leading to a 4-day hospitalization involving multiple tests and surgical procedures.
I am now facing a hospital bill estimated at over $75,000. While my VA insurance will cover a significant portion, I am responsible for the remaining 20%—a staggering amount for anyone, especially after an unexpected job loss.
Compounding this hardship is a critical long-term health battle. I have been diagnosed with advanced Chronic Kidney Disease (Stage 4) and am now on the Veterans administration transplant list. My path to a kidney transplant is moving forward on the fast track within two years, I am also reaching out to a live donor if approved, all expenses paid by VA, but it requires me to be out of work for 60-90 days for surgery in Portland, Oregon and recovery, creating a devastating gap in income.
To fight my wrongful termination and seek justice, I have also had to retain an employment attorney, adding significant legal fees to my mounting obligations.
Where Your Support Will Go:
Every dollar raised will be directed toward these pressing and vital expenses:
· The 20% Co-Insurance on the massive hospital bill from my emergency stay.
· Living expenses and lost income ($4,000-$5,000/month) during my recovery and as I prepare for transplant surgery.
· Legal fees to contest my wrongful termination and seek fair treatment.
A Personal Appeal:
I have dedicated myself to serving others, from my time in the U.S. Army to my career teaching golf. I believe in resilience and community. Today, I must ask my community for help. I am not one to easily ask for assistance, but the reality of these combined challenges leaves me with no other choice.
How You Can Help:
1. Donate: Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a tangible difference and bring immense relief.
2. Share: Please share this campaign with your network—on social media, via email, or with friends. Spreading the word is a powerful way to help.
3. Offer Support: Positive thoughts and prayers for my health and for favorable outcomes with my medical and legal battles are also deeply appreciated.
Thank You:
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for taking the time to read my story, for your generosity, and for your kindness. I will post regular updates here so you can follow my journey. Your support provides more than just financial aid; it offers hope and the strength to keep fighting.
With profound gratitude,
Bill