As most of you are aware, Rick has had ongoing health issues for the past several years. He went through chemotherapy and radiation to treat cancer in his throat 4 years ago. Since then he has had to overcome brain surgery, open heart surgery, along with many other treatments as a result of the impact radiation and chemotherapy had on his body. For the past year especially, his health has steadily declined. He has been unable to work as a result. He lost the ability to walk completely due to neuropathy . Most recently, he was hospitalized 6 times in the past 6 months for aspiration pneumonia as he has lost his ability to swallow. Last week, Rick made the difficult decision to stop all treatments as his condition cannot be cured. He has elected to spend whatever time he has left at home with hospice surrounded by family and friends.
Rick has always been a prideful man and a hard worker. He supported his family and took care of everyone in need whenever he was able to. We have found ourselves in unfamiliar territory and are reaching out to those closest to Rick for help in covering household expenses and the inevitable funeral expenses. We want him to be able to focus on enjoying whatever time he has left without worrying about finances.
We honestly don't know how much time we have left with him but anything you can do helps. Whether that is donating, sharing his story, or sending your love and prayers to his family. Thank you to everyone who have expressed their love and care as we navigate the end of Rick's extraordinary life. We are forever grateful for any donations.
