I'm requesting help for my family the best you can. Every little bit helps.
I am not a famous athlete, actor or musician or anything like that. I am just a regular guy with health issues trying to make it day to day with a fighting spirit and a desire to be here for my family.
Here's a few facts about me. My name is Larry Hakes, I am a 59 year old man, married for 34 years with 2 children.
I was in the US Navy in my youth in HS-15 and did 2 deployments on the USS Independence (CV-62) and 1 deployment on the USS Forrestal (CV-59).
After I was discharged from the service I became a letter carrier and a clerk for the US Postal Service. I injured my ankle during my time there and haven't been able to work since. I'm on disability which as you probably know isn't much to live on and that adds to my financial stress.
I just underwent a bilateral (double) lung transplant and I have a long road to recovery ahead of me. You can only imagine the cost of this transplant. I spent 18 days in the hospital- much of it in intensive care hooked up to machines, IVs and drainage tubes. Anyone who has ever had their chest cracked open for a surgery understands that it isn't a walk in the park. I am finally home now but am required to report once a week for a period of time for the doctors to manage and maintain my new lungs. The cost of driving to and from the hospital, parking fees and tolls are enough to break the budget themselves.
My wife has fought and survived 3 life threatening cancers. Lung, Endometrial and Breast. Although she is worried and concerned about my condition she is standing strong by my side as we together face the many challenges of this situation. There are many hurdles as we move forward and consider it to truly be a blessing that I was selected for this second chance on life. I can't even imagine leaving her and my children behind to deal with the mounting bills for this type of surgery. Medicare only covers so much and I could really use your help trying to honor paying my portion of the cost.
With all the medical stuff you can imagine the finances have become more then most people will face in a lifetime or more. Our credit cards have high balances, our house is in need of some maintenance and repairs and taxes and insurance still needs to be paid even in these situations. Many other financial obligations such as vehicle insurance and repairs are things we are having a hard time recovering from.
Never thought I'd be asking for help like this but here I am. If you find it in your heart and are able to help it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance and God bless you. Your prayers for a continued and speedy recovery would also be appreciated.
