This GoFundMe is created for Larry by his family in hopes of helping them raise funds for a much needed Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery that will improve Larry’s quality of life.

 

In November of 2014, Larry was diagnosed with early onset Parkinson’s disease, which is a neurodegenerative brain disorder with no cure. It impacts the central nervous system, making simple movements like walking and talking become increasingly difficult over time.

 

When he was diagnosed, he was at the height of his career working for National Academy of Sports and Medicine (NASM), where he traveled across the country to train other personal trainers and athletes, and ran a gym he owned with his wife. He has been an avid athlete his whole life. His experiences led him to a path of studying how the body works and helping others with strengthening and elevating their physical health. For him to be diagnosed with a progressive disease that affects his body in debilitating ways that he cannot control puts him on an unexpected journey of giving up his career early and learning how to live with the disease day by day at home.

 

Larry is a proud husband of Alex, father to seven children between the ages of 7-15, and stepdad to three adult children. Since the diagnosis, the family had to sell their gym business and Alex has had to take on a different job supporting the family as the sole provider while also caring for Larry and their children. They had to make more adjustments over the years as Larry’s physical condition deteriorated. Currently, Larry is living with assisted support from his family.

 

It is Larry’s greatest hope that this surgery will enable him to do more things independently so that he can enjoy his time with family and friends, and live life to its fullest.

 

Thankfully, a large percentage of the surgery cost is covered by the family’s health insurance and they only need to pay $10,000 remaining. The donations from this fundraiser will go towards paying off the remaining medical bill and additional expenses related to this surgery that includes gas for transportation, food, and other necessities to support Larry during recovery. Larry will be undergoing two brain surgeries in one week starting on Tuesday and will also do rehabilitation afterwards. The hospital is 2 hours away from home, and Alex will be taking time off from work to care for Larry during this time.

 

Any amount, small or big, will be greatly appreciated and will go long ways! You may also choose to donate directly to Alex’s Zelle account if you prefer.

 

Larry has been there for many of us, devoting his time training and teaching us how to build stronger bodies. He needs our support as he undergoes surgery and rehabilitation. Let’s return the love he’s given us and help Larry get strong again!

 

Much love and gratitude,

 

Larry’s family

 

Larry's wife's  Zelle:  Alejandra Arroyo