You've Got a Friend, Eugene!

If you know Eugene, you probably know his smile, his laugh, his voice... His work ethic, his kindness, his giant heart. Personally, he was my closest friend, my dance partner and my prom date.  In high school, he was always working 2 or 3 jobs to help his family and the shining star in our choir. He brought his patience and compassion to teaching music to students with special needs and no one was surprised when he went to Western to major in Music Education. What you may not know is that Eugene's health was compromised while in college. I remember receiving a call that he had been hospitalized with meningitis.  He chose work over his passion for music, because he needed to pay the bills. Never did I hear him complain about the hand he had been dealt. He found happiness in whatever he did.  Eugene is not one to share his struggles openly, and I feel grateful that he allows himself to be vulnerable with me. Sadly, his health problems after college only continued, for a long time unexplained, until more recently he was in a terrible car accident. When he told me about the accident  he said it was more of a miracle, because in the hospital they were able to diagnose why his health was so badly deteriorating. His kidneys were failing him. Now he had answers and could begin treatment.  His sense of humor and positive attitude have accompanied him through countless dialysis treatments and he's currently on the transplant list waiting for a kidney. The treatments take their toll on him. It's hard, if not impossible for him to work. Some days are good days, some days are bad days, but it doesn't seem to phase him. He only talks about how amazing his wife Vivian and his daughter Taylor have been through all of it, and how badly he wants to get well so he can take care of them again.  Eugene's story is far from over, and with a hearty laugh, he assures me that "he's not dying!", but our friend is in need. Eugene is proud and not one to ask for help.  When I spoke with him today my heart ached knowing that I could not help him alone. He needs a helping hand, and any contribution you are able to give, whether prayers, emotional or financial support would mean the world to him and his family. 
In Gratitude, 
Dayle Pivetta Extrell