Ron Harder's Story

Dear Friends and Family!

This is a challenging and very humbling letter for me to write. But I find myself at a place in my life that has led me here --- asking of you, my friends and family, to kindly assist myself and my wife (Betty Ann Harder) to get through this next chapter of our lives.

Life is not linear, and my journey has had many ups and downs. For those of you who know me best, you know I always tried to stay positive, to be there for the people I love and care for and always ready with a joke to share.

Recently, on top of ongoing financial hurdles, both Betty Ann and I’s health is deteriorating.

2017: I developed a foot ulcer on my left foot and after 4 surgeries lost part of my foot resulting in a lengthy recovery time. I never fully recovered, experiencing many falls due to lack of balance, resulting in further hospital visits.

2022: doctors diagnosed Betty Ann with cancer, extreme high blood pressure and anemia.

September 2023: I developed a diabetic foot ulcer on my right foot. This ulcer was unstoppable and after three trips to emergency, I was diagnosed as septic and had to have emergency lifesaving surgery. Two surgeries later and the foot showed no signs of healing.

Updates by Betty Ann Harder

Saturday, October 14, 2023: Life changing day. Ron’s leg has been amputated below the knee.

Sunday, October 15, 2023: He has been running a temperature following the surgery. Worrying that it can be a sign of infection! We remain positive that this is only a temporary condition and nothing more serious.

Wednesday, October 18, 2023: The doctor and nurses are impressed with Ron's efforts to become mobile. He is working hard with assistance from the nurses, rehabilitation specialists, his daughter Michelle and myself to conquer basic skills like sitting up, transferring to a wheelchair, toiletry transfer etc.

Thursday, October 19, 2023: Though very challenging, he is wheeling himself from his room to the nursing station and back. Way to go Ron!

Friday, October 20, 2023: Ron got a special visitor today that definitely put a smile on his face. Paddy Bear enjoyed getting some extra attention and love too.

Monday, October 23, 2023: Our sincerest thank you to everyone for all your love and support, both directly and through this GoFundMe page.

Tuesday, October 24, 2023: Ron had a very bad fall last night. He's doing ok, but it has left him feeling a little more banged up and bruised. The hospital staff checked him over and thankfully, no broken bones. Overall, his leg is healing well!

Tuesday, October 31, 2023: Happy Halloween! Ron is in good spirits and with the assistance of his grandkids has embraced the fun and dressed as a pirate! lol

BIG NEWS UPDATE!

November 1, 2023: Ron is going into Phase Two today! He is being transferred to Days Land for rehabilitation.

Next Steps: Following rehabilitation at Days Land will be Glenrose in Edmonton to be fitted with a prothesis.

This life changing event will come with a long recovery. Both physically, mentally and financially!

We are asking for your assistance to help with expenses not covered by our healthcare system to provide a means for Ron to mobilize himself towards a quality and enjoyable life with as much independence as possible.

• Wheelchair

• Walker

• Scooter

• Travel for medical appointments

• Possible home updates i.e. bathroom/bathing

Any amount of financial support during this challenging time will be met with our deepest gratitude.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!

Ron and Betty Ann Harder