I have a very dear friend named Nicole, for whom I would charge into a burning building without hesitation. Recently, her father who she adores was diagnosed with late-stage lung and liver cancer. He's been disabled since 1994, and their family isn't rich. Even with 80% of his treatment being covered by Medicare, her father's medical bills are costing more than they can afford, in large part due to the $1000 a month cost of the prescriptions, which aren't covered at all.
But this isn't a post about the failings of our Medicare system, or the fact that we'd really be far better if we just followed Canada's lead on single-payer healthcare. It's about a man's life.
The good news is that he's reacting well to the chemotherapy, but that doesn't change the fact that they need money to keep it going. Nicole has been through too much already in the last year, including losing her job to the economy, and the death of her younger brother. She simply cannot lose her father right now. Their friends and neighbors are chipping in, writing letters, throwing fundraisers, and in general doing whatever they can. If I had cash to spare, I would happily throw it into the fight, but I don't. So I'm contributing in the best way I can, by spreading the word, hoping that some of you out there will be moved enough by what I say to help.
I know people hear a dozen good causes a day that need money. Of this one all I can say is that you would be helping a very good woman save her father's life.
Nicole (left), with her father Bill, and her mother Leigh.
You can visit the website Nicole set up for her father, or donate directly through PayPal.