David J. Fusco Memorial Scholarship Fund

Dear friends, family, and kind-hearted individuals,

We are reaching out to you in our time of need to seek your support for our beloved father, David Fusco. On August 10, 2023, David underwent a life-saving liver transplant at Lahey Hospital due to non-alcoholic liver disease. Although the transplant was successful, David has remained admitted to the intensive care unit, fighting to regain his independence, strength and to overcome each complication that has come his way. As of March 2024, David is dialysis and ventilator dependent via tracheostomy. He was diagnosed with End Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD) following his liver transplant and remains on dialysis as he recovers. He has survived multiple battles against sepsis, pneumonia, and liver rejection to name a few and persevered every single time. He continues to fight for his life, his family, his first grandchild (due in mid March) and his many friends.

Background:

David has dedicated his life to teaching, his faith and youth sports, generously devoting his time and energy to coaching and refereeing multiple sports. In fact, this year marked his 35th year as a referee for the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA). He has influenced the lives of countless students and athletes, he is a proud graduate of Burlington High School Class of ‘81, New Hampton School, Springfield College Alumni Class of ‘86; former teacher at Tyngsboro High School, Athletic Director and History Teacher at Nashoba Valley Technical High School and presently on leave from his position as a History Teacher at Lynn Tech. David is also a man of faith. He is a devoted parishioner of St. Andrew Church in North Billerica, MA. David has made and continues to make a significant impact on these communities and continues to speak of how eager he is to get back to doing what he loves (teaching his students, attending weekly mass and being involved in sports).

Current Challenges:

As David's family, we are deeply grateful for the support and care he has received so far. However, we find ourselves facing significant financial burdens that arise with his ongoing medical costs, loss of income, and the urgent need to renovate his home to make it accessible for his post-transplant recovery.

Medical Costs:

The expenses associated with David's medical care, including hospital stay, medications, future rehabilitation sessions, follow-up appointments, dialysis and the possibility of the need for a kidney transplant will place a heavy financial burden on our family. Despite insurance coverage, the out-of-pocket costs are overwhelming, and we need your help to alleviate this financial strain.

Loss of Income:

Due to his lengthy hospitalization and ongoing recovery, David has been unable to work as a teacher and referee. Without his income, meeting basic monthly expenses will soon become impossible. Your contribution will help sustain the family's financial stability during this difficult period.

Home Renovations for Accessibility:

To aid David's recovery process, modifications need to be made to his home to ensure it is accessible and safe. This includes installing railings, ramps, and widening doorways, and adapting bathroom and kitchen facilities to accommodate his needs. These renovations are necessary for his comfort and independence as he continues his recovery journey.

Your Generous Contribution:

Your support, no matter the amount, will make a world of difference in David's life. By donating to this GoFundMe campaign, you can play an essential role in relieving our financial burden and ensuring a better future for our father by getting him home safely.

Please consider donating, sharing this campaign with your friends and acquaintances, and spreading the word on social media to help us reach our goal. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on David's life and show our appreciation for his years of service to the community.

On behalf of our entire family, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your kindness, generosity, and support during this challenging time.

We look forward to sharing your kind words of encouragement to our Dad and updating you all on his progress from here on out.

Thank you,

Spencer, Chris, Jesse, Lauren, and Jayne