Third Cancer Diagnosis Medical Fund

“We found cancer … again”  My worst nightmare rang through my ears for the third time in my life.

 

This is one of the most difficult things I have ever had to do.  Being the self-sufficient, stubborn person that I am asking for help is not something I am accustomed to.  

(Advanced apologies if this is redundant.  Trying to balance work at the moment along with my living situation and finances has me stressed and not able to get my thoughts out as perfectly as I would like)

As a number of you know I am a two time cancer survivor.  On June 29, 2017 I was diagnosed for the third time with an incredibly rare recurring cancer that has stemmed from the original cancer back in 2008.  I was informed by my oncologist at University Hospitals that this type of cancer has only come back in 5% of individuals.  Those 5% experience the recurrence within 4 to 5 years after the initial cancer.  It has been 10 since my first diagnosis back in June of 2008.  

While there have been so many amazing advances in medicine over the recent years the type of chemotherapy and surgery that I will be required to undergo is virtually the same as the first type of treatment.  Unfortunately, this being my third round of treatment there are FAR greater side effects and more dangers due to the fact that my body has already taken a beating the first two times.  Sadly, the odds may not be in my favor but that WILL NOT stop me from fighting.  I have an incredible family and friends support team that has been by my side through every battle and I REFUSE to let anyone down now.  Once the chemotherapy has been completed the doctors plan perform a lymph node removal surgery.  They will be going into my neck and removing all of the lymph nodes to help prevent additional cancer recurrences in the future.

The reason I have had to resort to GoFundMe is that this type of cancer is recurring as I mentioned earlier.  This means that this is considered a pre-existing condition and while I have great insurance and short term disability, there is a pre-existing condition clause that will inhibit me from being able to have my medical care covered and will also prevent me from receiving disability while I am out of work.  

As I mentioned earlier, this is one of the most difficult things I have ever had to do.  Due to the fact that I may not be covered by insurance and will not be eligible for my short term disability I will no longer be able to cover the lease of my apartment (which I am unable to break the lease), cover my car and car insurance (so that I may be able to get back and forth to the hospital as needed), as well as additional bills, not to mention countless prescriptions.

The estimated time that I will be out of work is between six to eight months.  This is the minimum.  I am researching as many possible options to make sure that I can financially sustain myself during this medical debacle.  

I know that this is asking quite a bit from everyone but just because this is GoFundMe does not mean that money supersedes prayers and positive energy.  I know that not everyone is able to donate but if you can donate just a minute of your day to think of me and send positive energy my way that is worth more than anything financially any day.  

I thank you all in advance for your prayers, financial help, and positive energy.  I hope to be able to report back in six months or so and share the good news that I am officially in remission.  

Thank you for all of your support.  

Much love,

Ryan <3