Help Keith and Lexan Face Medical Costs

I never imagined that our breakfast at Kisl's - shortly after Christmas - would likely be my final opportunity to share a meal with Keith.

His bear hugs were as strong as ever. His voice, though slightly weaker, still carried its familiar booming tones across the table. And, after many years of being Facebook buds, I was finally meeting his wife, Lexan, in person.

The conversation began like a bike ride down a long, steep decline. We let go of the brakes and talked about the exuberance of whirlwind visits. We all laughed at me while I described to the server exactly how I needed my omelet. And then came the hill. And then it was no longer fun.

The news about Keith's health was not great at that point. Not great but not bleak - as far I had known. There was still much to be discovered and determined by his team of doctors.

The days ran their course as did the holidays and winter finally melted into spring. It's odd how we love to hear from certain friends while also dreading the sight of a phone message attached to their name.

He was in the hospital. His body was not reacting favorably to the immunotherapy treatments. I didn't want to hear the medical terms. They were now considering hospice care. I didn't want to hear that either. I didn't want to know he was dying. I didn't want to believe his timeline!

When I initially reached out to Keith and Lexan regarding a GoFundMe account, they balked. It's tough to go from the people making donations to the ones needing them.

It was recently determined that Keith will be entering a 24-hour care facility. They are currently making difficult plans and decisions. My hope is that we are able to assist Keith and Lexan in offsetting some of the unexpected costs.

Ron Goralski

(Friend and former classmate)

Nothing in life prepares you for the moment you transition from being the couple known for lending a hand to becoming the ones in need of others’ generosity.

Take nothing for granted, because your lot in life can change that quickly. Without warning. Without reason or logic. Without time to process it all.

Live each day like it is going to be your last. Because it just might be. Give freely, love without question and be there for your friends. Because you never know when you might need them to be there for you.

Keith O'Reilly