Robert Belte Lost Everything in a Tornado

Who this will help

Hi, I'm Ed Belte, Robert Belte's older brother. I live in Vienna, Virginia and I'm trying to help my brother Robert get back on his feet after a tornado in Clarksville, Tennessee destroyed his home, his car and most of his belongings. He has been forced to start from scratch due to this natural disaster.

Why I'm fundraising

Robert was living in Port Jefferson, NY for approximately 20 years. In late 2022 he was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, which is a rare form of cancer that builds up in your bone marrow and can severely damage your bones. In his case, the bone damage was so severe, he has lost use of his right arm and requires surgery to strengthen his arm. He recently moved to Clarksville, Tennessee to be closer to his youngest son Dan and his wife Leanna, who are helping him get through all of the cancer treatments and surgeries he needs to get back to a more normal life.

On November 9, 2023 a tornado struck his apartment building in Clarksville, destroying it and making it uninhabitable. His car was wrecked and most of his belongings and furniture were either damaged beyond repair or swept away by the tornado. While he is technically homeless, he is staying with Dan and Leanna until they are able to find another apartment for him. But once they find another place for him to live, he will need to replace all the items he lost due to the tornado damage which were not covered by insurance. These expenses, on top of his medical copay and coinsurance bills have overwhelmed him, both mentally and financially.

Multiple Myeloma patients can never rid themselves of the cancer, it is only supressed. However, recent treatments have extended the lives of many cancer patients. NBC correspondent Tom Brokaw is a good example. He contracted Multiple Myeloma in 2012 and is still living a normal life. So it's possible for Robert to enjoy his remaining years if he gets through all the cancer treatments and surgery he needs.

The impact of your support

I'd like to give Robert the funds to replace all of the furniture, home goods and clothing that he lost when the tornado struck his apartment. His car is a total loss and I would like to give him the funds to purchase another used car in reasonably good condition so that he's able to get around again.

Robert is a low maintenance person. He's worked his entire life, raised three children and has never owned a new car. He gets by on very little. By helping Robert get back into his own home with all the things he needs to live comfortably, it will help him live out his remaining years in relative comfort and dignity.