Help Dennis & Family After His Open Heart Surgery.

It seems ironic to me that a man with such a big heart would have a failing heart, but that is exactly what has happened. On March 3, 2023, my friend Dennis Yee underwent a lifesaving open heart surgery to implant an LVAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device). This pump will continue to keep his blood pumping. It will save his life, and continue to improve the lives of those who know and love him. All of us who have had the honor to be family, friends, and coworkers to Dennis can attest to the fact that he has a kind and generous spirit. He has a knack for being everyone’s best friend. It comes naturally to him.

I’ve known Dennis for over 40 years and I can truly say that he has touched my life in so many ways. We grew up in South Lake Tahoe, California and I know Dennis has stayed in close contact with his old friends there. He was an excellent student and fierce competitor on the football field.

On a personal note, during high school when I was having difficulty with the divorce of my parents, Dennis stepped in and coaxed his family into giving me a more stable environment to rely on. I think I ate more meals at his family’s Chinese restaurant than in my own home during my junior and senior years! Dennis is like a brother to me. It was his kindness and that of other very good friends that got me through a bad time in my life. I know that there are many other friends, past and present, who could share similar experiences about Dennis going out of his way to be helpful and kind.

Dennis and his wife, Lisa have been married for over 22 years and have adopted two wonderful children, Eve (now 18) and Ben (now 14). He is a devoted father and a fantastic role model. The family has faced many health challenges over the years starting with Dennis having Acute Promyeleocytic Leukemia in 2000. He fought a successful battle with the help of chemotherapy but that same treatment has hastened the deterioration of his heart. He was later diagnosed with cardiomyopathy which was managed for a few years with medication. Lisa has also battled cancer as well, and continues to go through additional post-cancer therapy to improve her chances of not having to fight this terrible disease again. They seem to be getting knocked down from all sides! These two have supported each other tirelessly through all their ills while successfully raising two kids and working. They have always enjoyed the support of their respective families which has been invaluable in their lives.

In 2014, Dennis had a Biometric ICD implanted and life went on pretty much as usual, but in 2020 and again recently during a trip to the hospital for tests, his doctors determined that he had severe heart failure and Atrial Fibrillation. The situation had changed. One day you’re having tests; the next day the doctors tell you that you need a new heart! Unfortunately, Dennis does not qualify for a heart transplant so the (LVAD) was the only viable solution. He will be hospitalized for 2-3 weeks after surgery and will be home recovering for an additional 2 or more months with multiple types of therapy. The (LVAD) requires a permanent external connection so Dennis and Lisa are in for quite a bit of training to manage his future condition. It’s going to be a journey that will require all his strength and focus. That is why I’m asking for your assistance in reducing the family's stress by helping to provide financial support through your donations. Dennis estimates their monthly expenses at about $5000 so our goal is to raise at least $15,000 to give them some breathing room during this difficult time. Of course, any amounts raised beyond our goal will be greatly appreciated as there will most certainly be unforeseen expenses. Dennis has indicated that he and Lisa will donate any unused funds in the future. Sort of Paying it Forward. It’s a very “Dennis” thing to do.

No donation is too small and your prayers for Dennis and his family are always welcomed. Also, please feel free to share this appeal with someone you know.

God Bless.