Help Duane Fight for His Future

The holidays are a time for us to count our blessings and the give to others. This is one of those times when a friend of mine could use a little help. For as long as I’ve known Duane, he has been the kind of person who could light up a room with his smile, his humor, and his ability to make everyone feel at ease. He has this rare gift of making life brighter, even in the darkest moments. Whether it was with a joke, a song, or a kind word, Duane always had a way of lifting others. Now, he’s the one who needs lifting.

Let me introduce my friend Duane Bullard. Many of us know him and many people share the same cancer diagnosis. To say the least, it's scary, confusing, and discouraging.

Several years ago, Duane and I worked together at a predominate RV Resort in Lake George NY, where camping and fun went hand in hand. At that time, Duane faced a battle that would bring most to their knees—prostate cancer. He fought with incredible strength, continuing to work through the pain, missing very few days of work, and pushing forward even when the treatments took everything out of him. After years of struggle, the cancer went into remission, and for a while, we all breathed a sigh of relief.

But recently, Duane shared heartbreaking news: the cancer has come back, more aggressive than ever. The cancer has progressed on the bone throughout his body but luckily not in the bone. Just when he needed support the most, life dealt him unimaginable blows. Upon learning of his diagnosis, his employer decided it was time to part ways..... He has been out of work for over a year. It stripped him of his health insurance and he was left without an income. Finally about 6 months ago he was able to get Obamacare.

Today, Duane is looking for a small apartment. Currently he moved in with parents in Oswego. He is without a permanent home. Indeed according to Webster's dictionary that is the definition of homelessness but luckily his parents have some room and could take him in until he can get a place of his own again.

I’ll never forget the night he broke down, tears in his eyes, asking me, “What did I ever do so wrong in my life to deserve this?” It’s a question that haunts me because Duane has done nothing but spread joy and positivity to everyone around him. He deserves so much better than the hand he’s been dealt. He has 3 awesome girls who I am sure are taking care of him, but he really would like some quality of life again.

Now, it’s OUR turn to lift Duane up. He needs US and needs help—financially, emotionally, and physically—to navigate the coming days. Funds raised will go toward Duane’s medical bills, living expenses, and providing him with a safe, stable place to rest his head that he can call his own, while he continues to fight.

Duane has always been there for us, offering laughter, love, and light. Let’s be there for him now, in his greatest time of need. Any amount you can give will make a world of difference.

Please share his story, Donate, and help us give Duane the hope and dignity he so deserves.

Robert Hilton