Tommy Hotchkiss III

This gofundme is In loving memory of Thomas Hotchkiss III and created on behalf of The Hotchkiss family. As a young boy, Tommy was born with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a genetic disorder where his body does not maintain muscle mass due to an inborn lack of the protein dystrophin. The X-linked condition significantly weakens the muscles of the heart and lungs, leading to cardiac or respiratory failure.

Despite this devastating diagnosis, Tommy faced every day with a smile and his outlook was always positive. One of Tommy’s favorite activities was bowling and as Tommy’s mobility decreased with age he began using adaptive technologies to help him get around - including a power wheelchair.

Additionally, he worked closely with the local fire departments, raising funds for the annual Fill the Boot Drive to support the Southwest Florida chapter of the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) for 14 years. He was a fighter who would go to any length with an inner strength that shined so bright.

At home, Tommy received assistance from family members and nurses. His father Thomas Hotchkiss Jr., a single parent, devoted every hour of the day to making endless phone calls to the insurance company regarding his medicines, doctors and treatments so his son always had what was medically needed even sacrificing his own needs.

On December 15, 2022 Tommy lost his battle with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. His family is now faced with learning to live without their beloved son, brother, and grandson. Their wish is to ensure Tommy's last wishes are carried out; however, the financial burden of planning a memorial is overwhelming. With his father's own medical struggles and diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, money has always been tight. On behalf of his family and as Tommy's nurse/stepmom I am creating this gofundme in honor of Tommy so we can proceed with medical expenses endured, funeral and memorial arrangements.