The Russell's Relief Fund

I know we all have stresses in our lives that sometimes seem unbearable to overcome.  Health issues (kids getting sick, missing work from the common cold, flu season), financial burdens (past due bills, cars in the shop, and the cost of living steadily rising without our pay increasing to match).  But imagine going through all the everyday hardships of life when you have a sick child; and not just the ordinary sick, the “C” word sick.  My dear sweet friends, The Russell’s, are experiencing just that.  Their sweet little boy Andrew was diagnosed with ependymoma (a rare form of brain cancer) in 2006.  Despite being extremely blessed over the years financially, by various foundations, charity, and support from their family and friends, the past year’s medical costs have officially become a financial nightmare for Andrew’s parents.  Given Andrew’s current prognosis, these awesome parents have been attempting to provide Andrew with fun and fulfilling what little time is left with unforgettable memories.  But this goal is becoming near impossible.  Currently, they are having a very hard time keeping up with their household bills, gas expenses to transport Andrew to and from the hospital once a week for chemo, along with medical treatment and costs that are not covered by insurance. 

Let’s join together as a community and help a family that is truly in need during this holiday season and relieve some financial stress off of them.  Let’s offer one of the strongest, bravest (I know I am going to be in trouble for saying that ;) and kindest family, some generosity so that they can hopefully give Andrew a memorable Christmas.  Only their closest family and friends know their struggle and their financial situation.  Michael and Misty Russell are so humble and modest that the thought of asking for help would be devastating.  That is why they do not have too. I will do it for them. 

Like most of the world, I become overly “giving” and helping during the holidays (whether it is donating to a local toy drive, soup kitchen, or picking an angel from a tree).  So I thought to myself “why not donate to a family that we all KNOW and love dearly, that could actually need some help right now”?   Any little help would be greatly appreciated.....