Duane Nelson's Medical Bills

I would like to tell you a story, so I'm going to start it out in the way of my people.

No shit, there I was. 30 some odd years ago, 18 years old, naive, with my first boyfriend, getting into this strange group of people who were wearing funny clothes. I was freaked out slightly, and intrigued.

And I meet Duane Nelson or Svienn Njarlson, as I know him in the SCA. He quickly talkes to me and we become fast friends. One of the first things I notice about Svienn is that he is the most kind hearted, gentle person I've met in the SCA.  

He and I remain friends throughout the years. He gets married and has a son named Kris. Then the worst thing that can happen to a person happens, his wife dies of a brain tumor. He and Kris are devastated, but Duane powers on and keeps going for his son. I admire his drive and determination and gentleness and helpfulness. 

Then, a couple of years ago, he mees Rebecca, or Ranka in the SCA. They hit it off and within a year they are married! We are all so happy that a man who embodies the ideals of the SCA and the ideals of Chivalry has found happiness once again.  Duane and Rebecca make a home and continue to guide Kris through his life. Duane struggles a bit with money after the recession, as many of us do, but he keeps working as a substitute teacher and other odd jobs to support his family.

Duane has always been ready to help anyone with anything whenever he can. He would give you the shirt off his back. He would drive for hours to pick you up if you had no other ride. He is always doing what needs to be done in a quiet and competent manner, long before you even realize that he's done what needs to be done.

Which brings us to yesterday, when Duane and Rebecca anounce the Duane is going in for a biopsy to see if he has lung cancer. We are all devastated. Duane has been through so much. This isn't fair! 

Duane is being seen at one of the best hospitals in the US, Barnes Hospital. They are tops in cancer care. They are also expensive.

Duane and Rebecca have no vacation, no disability pay, no sick pay, nada. I'm asking you to look deep into your hearts and give whatever you can so they can concentrate on getting Duane well, instead of worrying about bills. I've set a huge goal for this and we probably won't meet it, but anything we raise for the, they will be grateful for. Even if you can only give $5, it all adds up.

Thank you for considering helping these two loving people who have been dealt a horrible blow.