Help a Veteran's Family Facing Cancer & Home Loan

My name is Todd, and this is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to write.

I’ve spent my life taking care of my family, but now, as I face my final chapter, I need to ask for help to do just that.

I am 60 years young, a husband, and a father of three, with my 16-year-old son still at home. I served in the USMC for 23 years, retiring as a CWO3 with a 100% disability rating. In that time, I completed nine overseas tours—including three combat tours—serving in the Gulf War and twice after 9/11.

After retiring, I worked wherever I could, despite my PTSD and injuries. My line of work was helicopters, which kept me away from home often, including my last job fighting wildfires in the U.S. But in March of 2024, everything changed.

I was diagnosed with stage four squamous cell carcinoma. With my family’s love and support, I endured two rounds of radiation and chemo, believing we were making progress. But my latest scan told a different story—the cancer is back, and aggressive. My doctors have now given me six months, though some estimates are even shorter.

Through it all, my wife has been by my side. We’ve been married for nearly 30 years, and she gave up her career to raise our children—including our two on the autism spectrum, one of whom still lives with us. She has sacrificed everything for our family, and my biggest fear is leaving her and our son unprotected.

I thought I had prepared. I was counting on my life insurance (VGLI) to provide $150,000, but after reviewing our documents, we discovered the policy is missing. With my declining health, I can no longer work, and our survivor benefits won’t be enough to cover our home.

My Final Wish: Security for My Family

We need $90,000 to pay off our small home and another $35,000 to settle remaining debts, including a 2017 RAV4. Without this, my wife will be forced to return to work full-time while caring for our son, leaving them in a difficult situation.

I’ve started selling my personal possessions, but it’s not enough. So, I am asking for help—not for me, but for my family. Every dollar brings them closer to stability and security after I’m gone. If you can’t donate, please consider sharing this with others who might be able to help.

I never imagined I’d be in this position, but I still believe in the kindness of others. Your support, prayers, and generosity mean more to me than I can express. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for helping me give my family the future they deserve.