Supporting Paul's Battle Against Stage 4 Lymphoma

Tommy George Dougherty is organizing this fundraiser on behalf of Paul Vitek.

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Hello,

I'm reaching out to you with an urgent and heartfelt appeal on behalf of my dear friend, Paul Vitek. I had the privilege of meeting Paul back in December 2016, and over the years, our friendship has grown into something truly special. Today, I'm reaching out to you because Paul's journey has taken an unexpected turn – he's now facing the formidable challenge of stage 4 Hodgkin's Lymphoma. As he navigates this difficult path, I'm committed to standing by his side and rallying the support he needs in this critical time.

From the very moment we crossed paths, Paul's loyalty, care, genuineness, and gentle nature were apparent. He's the kind of person who consistently goes above and beyond for his friends. Countless times, Paul has been my rock, always ready to lend a listening ear or a helping hand, no matter the hour or circumstance. Whether it's engaging in late-night conversations or ensuring my safety in uncomfortable situations, Paul's warm heart and open arms have been a constant source of comfort.

One particular memory stands out – a time when I found myself in an unsettling situation. Without a moment's hesitation, I turned to Paul for help, and he quickly guided me away from the discomfort. He ensured I was safe and at ease, going the extra mile to drive me to my hotel and making sure I was alright before leaving. This episode is a testament to the person Paul is – selfless, caring, and always prioritizing others' well-being.

As Paul confronts one of the most daunting battles of his life, I'm determined to reciprocate the unwavering support he has always shown me. Despite the geographical distance of 450+ miles, I'm standing by his side just as he has stood by mine. His stage 4 Hodgkin's Lymphoma diagnosis serves as a powerful reminder of life's unpredictable nature. Yet, Paul's spirit remains unbreakable, and his love for playing the piano continues to fuel his unwavering determination to overcome adversity.

Music has been Paul's sanctuary since childhood, and his passion for playing the piano is nothing short of inspiring and captivating. To him, playing isn't just about producing notes; it's about pouring his soul into every melody. Unfortunately, the treatment he's currently undergoing poses the cruel threat of neuropathy – a condition that could rob him of his ability to play. Nevertheless, there's a glimmer of hope in the form of a new treatment called nivolumab. This treatment offers a chance to not only fight his illness but also reduce the risk of neuropathy, potentially preserving his ability to create music.

However, the cost of nivolumab is substantial, potentially reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars. To add to the complexity, insurance doesn't cover it, leaving Paul burdened with an immense financial strain on top of his health challenges. This is where we, as a community, can come together to make an extraordinary impact. By joining forces and rallying behind Paul, we have the power to create a significant difference. Our collective support can play a pivotal role in giving Paul the opportunity to receive the treatment he requires to fight his illness and protect his cherished musical passion.

I implore you to stand alongside us in this endeavor by donating, sharing Paul's story, and spreading the word. Together, we can ensure that Paul's fingers will continue to dance across the piano keys, that his music will reverberate, and that his journey will inspire us all.