First, I would like to thank you for taking the time to read my story.  My name is Eddie and I am 48 years old.  In late November of 2016, I began experiencing unbearable pain in my lower back and the inability to sleep (I actually didn’t sleep for four days, straight).   Because, of the pain and inability to sleep I went to the emergency room.  At this visit a kidney stone was detected in addition to swollen lymph nodes, which required another appointment with a specialist, an oncologist.  What followed was a series of tests and biopsies which revealed that I had Stage IV, B-Cell Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma.  After this upsetting diagnosis I underwent over a year of chemotherapy.

During my year of my treatment I was very limited as to what work I could do because of the numerous doctor appointments and side effects from the chemo.  Because of this, I unfortunately had to file for bankruptcy because, as you all know, the bills don’t stop because you are having a bad year that is beyond your control.  

The purpose of this fund is to appeal to you to find it in your heart to contribute to my ongoing treatment.  NH Lymphoma has a 60% chance of returning however, if I have a bone marrow stem cell transplant my odds are greatly reduced by 30%.  Because the transplant needs to take place in California, a long way from Florida where I currently live, I will be unable to undergo the transplant, without the help from friends and family.

With a grateful heart and a humble attitude, I ask that you please donate any amount you are comfortable with, every penny counts, so that I may have the opportunity for the bone marrow stem cell transplant.  Whether you can donate or not, my hope is that you take a minute to appreciate your health, your family, and loved ones.  Life is so precious.

Thank you so much for allowing me the opportunity to share my story.