Rob is Fighting for His Life & Losing Insurance

Back in June 2020, our friend Rob Stengel courageously beat peritoneal mesothelioma, an extremely rare type of cancer that impacts the lining of the abdomen. Unfortunately, we received the devastating news that Rob’s cancer returned this May 2022.

 

This is an aggressive type of cancer that is caused by asbestos exposure, and it is highly uncommon in people as young as Rob. He's received a positive treatment prognosis from his doctors, however it requires immediate and intensive treatment.

However, Rob’s partner Ashley will be laid off from her job at the end of May. Ashley is their household’s only source of income (Rob is currently a full-time law student) AND Rob’s health insurance. In short, we need your help.

 

Currently, Rob must undergo surgery to remove a blockage in his abdomen on Monday, May 23rd, by creating a new pathway from his stomach to his intestine to avoid the blockage. After his recovery, he will have spent almost two weeks in the hospital. After surgery, he will then continue to undergo immunotherapy treatments every three weeks at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

 

All of us know Rob from different walks of life, but we can all attest to how wonderful he is. He is an incredibly kind and thoughtful person who has shown up and supported each of us time and time again throughout our friendship. After law school, Rob plans to dedicate his career to public service by protecting our country’s natural resources and enforcing environmental laws.

 

We feel lucky that Rob is such a mentally strong person who is handling his relapse with astounding grace, level-headedness, and resolve. That being said, we need your support to ensure he can focus all of his attention on beating this disease for a second time!

 

Our ask is urgent, as Rob and Ashley are about to lose their health insurance coverage and only source of income. Your support will help pay for Rob's medical and prescription bills as well as his living expenses.

 

Right now, the best way to support him is by donating whatever amount you can to help cover his necessities over the next several months. But, if you want to personally provide any additional direct assistance, please feel free to reach out to any of us.

 

We sincerely appreciate any and all donations and encourage you to spread the word through social media.

 

THANK YOU,

 

Abby, Arpi, Ben, Gwen, and Priya