Lifesaving Surgery for Henry Erickson

Hello

My name is Kerri Helliwell and I’m fundraising for my friend Henry Erickson.

As you may already know, Henry's doctor discovered another cancerous tumor, this time on his left cheek which is now growing in his ear that requires immediate surgery not only to remove the cancer but to avoid hearing loss. Last Wednesday Henry had the first part of the surgery removing the tumor which is sitting on a nerve, he now has facial paralysis (left side). His second and hopefully final surgery is scheduled for tomorrow, Friday, January 27th. This is a very painful skin graft procedure to cover up the open wound and it will take about 6 weeks to heal.

Unfortunately, due to downsizing, he lost his job and his health insurance coverage. He has applied for Medicaid, but they are backlogged for months, and his application is not yet approved. Henry has also tapped out his 401k which is why we are reaching out for help.

Henry has battled health challenges for most of his adult life and his recent cancer is causing him pain, fatigue, and extreme stress. In addition to having diabetes 2, Henry is a kidney donor recipient and due to cancer, he will be losing his kidney this year and will be doing dialysis for 3 years. Last summer, he had skin cancer removed from both his back and his forehead which has caused facial paralysis and a slow loss of eyesight in his left eye.

The exact cost of his surgery is not yet determined, but without insurance, it is estimated to be around $10,000+.

Please know that we are so very appreciative of any amount you can donate, but if that is not possible, no worries, please share this post beyond our community with all friends and family.

Thanks so very much for all your help. Xo Kerri Helliwell