Update: My dad has been fighting so hard. Hes gone through things that could have taken him out, hes been strong and so brave through it all. He is not giving up, but is strong enough to finish his journey with dignity and grace. We are working on a plan to have him at home. Unfortunately that also comes with a cost. I am eternally grateful for all who have donated already, which made it possible for me to have this time with my dad. Now we are focusing on making the most of this time we have.

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My father is 63 years young and has lived many lives. Through it all, he has been an incredible father, never letting me go a moment without knowing his love. He is a recovering alcoholic who has worked the program and become deeply involved, making many friends through AA and the jobs he’s held along the way. Anyone who meets him loves his calm nature and sense of humor. He has overcome every obstacle sent his way with pride and determination. Born in Arizona and raised there before spending his teen years in Chicago, he has faced turmoil, mental health stuff, and addiction, but he has always come out stronger. He is my biggest supporter, my confidant, and my rock. He's the person I call every day, whether I’m scared, stressed, or excited.

Recently, my father was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer that has metastasized to his brain. This news has turned our world upside down. He has become so weak that he can no longer care for himself, which is so unlike him. He’s always been sharp, well-dressed, and independent. Now, he is in constant pain, dizzy, and struggling to see due to the tumors on his cerebellum. He tried to figure things out on his own before telling me, another way to protect me, but there is no easy answer. The diagnosis came out of nowhere, and the medical system failed him by denying care earlier that could have made a difference. He receives a small amount of social security that barely covers his rent. He was supplementing with working every day, delivery driving and other hard work. He is not able to drive right now, and I am a teacher at a small private school (with an extremely understanding boss.Thank you Theresa for all your help along this journey). We have no family nearby to help, and his son lives out of state and cannot leave his job. I want to be able to go back to Arizona and stay with him during treatment, but I have limited savings. His prognosis is not good, but of course he wants to keep fighting.

My father is a good man who has always been there for me, through his own trials and tribulations. He has fought to be the man he is today, overcoming addiction and every obstacle in his way. He loves me deeply and has been my support system for years. I want to be with him during this time, but I can’t afford the travel and care costs alone. He deserves so much better, and anyone who knows him knows what a good man he is. I don’t know what I will do without my daddy, but right now, I just need to be with him. Any help—whether through donations or sharing our story—means the world to us. Thank you for supporting us in this difficult moment.