This is Mike O'Brien, my dad. He has bladder cancer.

I understand that he is no more special or deserving of help than any of the hundreds of others reaching out in places like this, except for the fact that he's my dad. I live more than 5,000 miles from him, and now find myself dependent on the kindness of both friends and strangers to offer the financial support I so desperately wish I could offer myself. We find ourselves here because no matter how hard one tries in life, sometimes all you've got just isn't enough. Especially in a government that hasn't figured out how to better support our rapidly increasing community of elders.

Together since I was young, my step-mother is currently the full-time caregiver to my dad and my mentally handicapped aunt. She herself, is in her sixties and suffers from numerous age related conditions. All three depend on social security and government assistance to get by, which is simply not enough on a good day without any additional struggles.

Throughout my life, I have witnessed Mike and Carmel host in their home and act as primary caregivers for all four of their aging parents through their last days. My father has always been referred to as a man who would give you the shirt off his back, and it's true. Because of this, I have to believe there is some serious karmic retribution due for his selflessness.

Mike was already suffering from diagnosed Spinal Stenosis, a wretchedly painful condition rendering my dad unable to dress himself or raise his hands above his head, when the news of cancer came. They have already been depending on community outreach programs to assist with daily chores like laundry, accepting food donations and arranging rides to doctor's appointments with friends because do not have a car- but this is not sustainable. Future treatment will require commuting to Philadelphia from New Jersey regularly, with recovery time frames and prognosis still to be determined.

It is so hard to ask for something when you don't know what exactly what you need, but any kind of financial support would most certainly be used for good. There are old medical bills that have accumulated, with more guaranteed to come. And that obviously doesn't account for food, travel, or additional assistance that may be required. At this point, I am putting my trust in our fellow humans rather than our flawed social systems.

Carmel, his wife, is in charge of this fundraiser and will continue to post updates on treatments and needs. We thank you in advance for support of any kind, if even just well wishes. Sending love and support to anyone who finds themselves in similar circumstances.

Mahalo Nui Loa.