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Steve's At Ease Fund
Donation protected
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In 1985, at age 23, Steve was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma. He survived that diagnosis; but at the time, was extremely damaged by the over radiation to his chest, and throat. He battled a recurrence in 1992 when his kids were 6 months and 10 years old. He continued to work throughout a brutal chemotherapy regime, to support his family. After years of living a healthy life, and being hands down, the hardest-working, kindest man I've ever known, he was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. Our superman (a name he has rightfully earned) had to deal with cancer AGAIN. This time, his prognosis didn't look so great. His cancer was strong and aggressive, but Steve was stronger. He had his chemotherapy pumped through his chest while he continued working. He then had his esophagus removed, a challenging recovery, and another recurrence a year later, which was treated with chemo and radiation; working throughout, except for 6 weeks following the surgery.
Steve and his wife, Tracy, made a conscious decision to live life to the fullest after that scary diagnosis. They are inspirational for many reasons; but one is their zest for life, and their love for each other. The thing about Steve is, he wants everyone else to be happy and comfortable. The thing about that lovely attribute, is that sometimes he forgets to take care of himself (his wife will agree!)
A month ago, Steve went to the doctors and they discovered that his cancer was back. All of us around Steve, have gotten sad, upset, and down about this seemingly unjustifiable disease, and it has been Steve who is comforting us; once again, being our superman.
My hope with this fund, is that we can take some pressure off of Steve, so he can focus on living life to the fullest; without the added pressure of hospital bills, medication, testing, and travel expenses. My hope is that Steve can do the things he and Tracy love to do, so Steve can really live, without so much added financial stress.
Organizer and beneficiary
Liz Higgins
Organizer
Ipswich, MA
Samantha Brown
Beneficiary