Larry Ladd Family Support

Hi, my name is Barbara Byers and I am setting up this fundraiser for the family of a very dear childhood friend, Larry Ladd, who recently lost his battle with cancer on August 4th. His lovely wife Sonya and their 3 children, Kendal, Hudson and Bailey, need help and support as they navigate through this extremely challenging time in the months ahead.

For those that knew Larry, you will recall his enthusiasm for everything he did; the love of music & production, the events he planned & booked, helping others achieve success & goals, his love & devotion towards the family he created with Sonya, and the friends he made and cherished throughout his lifetime.

Life can change in an instant; this happened to Larry in early February of this year. Larry was the picture of health, living an active lifestyle, playing tennis with friends and busy managing his business when he unexpectedly experienced an intestine rupture and sepsis. He was rushed into emergency surgery where they found a tumor wrapped on his intestine. The recovery following this admission was strenuous, he faced numerous tests, scans and biopsies to find an exact diagnosis. In May, when his condition began to further deteriorate, Larry was rushed to Scripps Memorial Hospital in California. They were able to accurately diagnose him with B-cell lymphoma and create a detailed care plan.

Larry was filled with gratitude and hope as this type of lymphoma had a high management/cure rate, and they had every reason to be optimistic. The chemo treatments began and he tolerated them well, keeping a positive attitude. He continued managing work throughout his chemo treatments as he started getting stronger. His loving wife, Sonya, was by his side taking care of Larry and their children, and always maintaining a beautiful smile and her wonderful sense of humor.

Larry's treatments were scheduled to be completed by the end of September and he was starting to make plans to visit his sweet mom, brothers, and extended friends & family as he was very much looking forward to celebrating the return of good health.

Sadly, Larry's health took an unfortunate turn where he once again required emergency surgery. He was again in the ICU, fighting sepsis and low blood pressure for several days, but this time with a chemo suppressed immune system. Larry heroically tried to fight, but the sepsis was taking too hard of a toll on his body and he passed away surrounded by his wife and children telling him how much he was deeply loved.

You can donate here to assist them in their time of need. Sonya is facing a lot of unknowns, navigating plans for the service, medical bills that keep appearing, and monthly household expenses that Larry had personally managed. All this, as well as supporting her children's immeasurable grief. Bailey has bravely returned to school & her dance. Kendal has been supporting her mom and taking on more responsibilities and Hudson, who recently graduated high school, is hoping to make life plans while missing Larry’s guidance & wisdom.

Having become a widow in 2021, I know from personal experience grief does not give you a break or pass... the mail, the bills and responsibilities do not go away. In the face of heartache and uncertainty the complexities of keeping your life on track and all the balls in the air become your sole responsibility, and there are no options but to do it well for the sake of your children.

The family is filled with gratitude for the love and kindness extended to them from their beautiful community of family & friends. We thank you for holding the Ladd family in your hearts & prayers and for your continued support as they begin this long journey. They hope to continue to make Larry proud.

Warmest regards, Barbara Byers