For those of you who don't know, my dad is Richard Hetzell. When I was a child in grade school, whether we were learning about the history of our country or researching our family trees... I would come in and talk about my dad. I'd stand up tall and proud and spout off facts about who he was and what he'd accomplished. Facts like he was part of the original SEAL Team 1, and fought in the Vietnam War. I'd tell my class how many tours he took and the number of his hand kills, etc. It wasn't until I was older did I understand what all that meant as those same facts sent potential boyfriends running from our front door. What it all meant is that my dad is a truly rare type of individual. Part of an elite and extremely amazing group of men. Who are born to make a difference. My dad has always been my hero. He's the epitome of a man who loves his family, loves his country and with every step he walks with God. He's now fighting for his life and I fear losing the war against Covid. Like so many others, he's fighting so hard but it just isn't enough. Before he was put onto the ventilator he objected to it he was tired of fighting and in pain and was ready to give up. That's not the dad I know. We convinced him the ventilator could buy precious time for his lungs to heal. He's been making small baby steps of improvement but now the hospital is saying they've done all they can for him. Im not really sure how to take that. My mom thankfully did not get Covid. But myself, my husband and my siblings are so so concerned if he doesnt beat this thing, we'll lose our mom too from the heartache and stress. They have been married for 46 yrs, now she's looking at losing her soul mate, the house they raised 3 kids in, their vehicles, EVERYTHING. I’m writing this for her, my dad and my 6yr old nephew they are raising. My dads been self employed my whole life. He didn't plan for retirement. He didn't have anything set aside for emergencies. All his plans for their future only worked with him in it. She now has to figure out where the money for their mortgage, the car payments, electricity, Noah's treatments etc. will come from all while being a full time mother again in her 60s raising a 6yr old with cerebral palsy. Please help us help them. I’m trying to raise enough money to give my mom a break for however long from the stress of wondering how she’s going to pay bills so she can focus on Noah and my dad and helping support him in healing. Any amount would be a blessing. If you can't donate that's okay please keep them in your prayers. With the heaviest heart I thank you all for your time and love.
Kelly Ruiz
