Unexpected bills after Mikes death. Help needed

***2/2/2024: UPDATE: Help Needed.

Mike was a strong and fearless warrior as he spent well over a year battling metastatic cancer that would have taken lesser men in swifter battles. But this tenacity and resilience spoke to his courage and his love for his wife and family. Although this battle was courageously fought, it was not without its scars physically, mentally and financially for Mike and Nancy.

Today as we are in the midst of preparing for his funeral service, a roofer had to be called as the roof is leaking. As it turns out the entire back side of the roof will need to be replaced as soon as possible. It is the middle of Winter in the Midwest which brings the sub-zero temperatures, rain, ice and snow. The leaking roof will need to be addressed as soon as possible.

Mike's funeral is in a few days and as I type this, Nancy is standing out in the yard talking with the roofer who has quoted an $8,000 cost to repair the roof.

Any amount that you can donate no matter how small would be most gratefully received and appreciated.

Nancy would never ask.

But I am asking for her.

Please help if you can.

I know many of you have previously donated to help with the medical expenses while Mike was still alive. We are so thankful for that. If you are unable to donate we just ask that you hold Nancy in your prayers. Thank you ***

My name is Sami Waight, and on behalf of my family, it is with a heavy heart that I ask for your support in helping with medical expenses for my beloved father, Mike Cooley.

In March 2023, our world came to a halt when Mike was diagnosed with small-cell lung cancer. Unfortunately, it has been rapidly spreading throughout his body and has now entered parts of his brain. On top of developing painful cysts, he has lost a significant amount of weight and experiences extreme fatigue. As of now, he is receiving treatment to slow the spread, stagnate the pain, and improve his quality of life.

According to Dictionary.com, the word “fatherly” can be defined as having “emotional connotations; it always suggests a kind, protective, tender, or forbearing attitude”. Synonyms for “fatherly” include: paternal, affectionate, benevolent, protective, supportive, and tender.

Mike has been a father to me for over 20 years. From the very beginning, he took on caring for three children in addition to his own. During that time, he has always made a point of being reliable; of showing up regardless of the situation; of being kind, patient, and supportive. He has been a part of the foundation in my understanding of the importance of family. He is the definition of fatherly.

Despite the gravity of his situation, we are hopeful that his treatments will allow us more time together. He is an artist, with a love of nature and a penchant for painting mountains; a friend; a husband; a father; and a papa. Most of all, he is a fighter. Even through his pain, he is steadfast and tenacious in staying present. Our lives are better simply because Mike is in them.

If you would like to assist with the financial burden of these treatments, any donation would be greatly appreciated. All funds will go directly to Mike's medical costs including: treatments (chemo and radiation), medicines, and travel expenses.

Lastly, if you are reading this, I would like to thank you. In a world where we are constantly bombarded with information, thank you for taking the time today to be present with us through this difficult time. Maybe we know each other, maybe we don’t, but my family and I are with you, and we are so grateful for you. In these moments, we are forced with the realization of just how precious time is, but also the power of community, hope, love, and support. We are stronger when we lean on each other.

Thank you for your consideration and support as we continue to pray and fight for Mike's battle with cancer.

With Love,

The Cooley Family