If you’ve ever met Bob, you know he’s the kind of person who lights up a room—or your social media feed—with his humor, heart, and quiet strength.
Since birth, Bob has discreetly and valiantly lived with optic neuropathy, making him legally blind even with corrective lenses. And for several years, he fought—and beat—colon cancer after enduring grueling treatments, numerous surgeries, and days when even getting out of bed was a triumph. Emerging cancer-free, Bob was full of hope and ready to move forward.
But life had another challenge waiting.
In November 2022, Bob was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)—a rare, aggressive blood cancer. His tri-lineage MDS affects red cells, white cells, platelets, and his bone marrow’s ability to produce them. It was a crushing blow after everything he had already endured.
As his disease has progressed, doctors now say that Bob’s only chance at survival is a bone marrow transplant, scheduled for July 25th at VCU in Richmond, VA, two hours away from home.
This transplant is Bob’s Hail Mary. It’s our shot at keeping him with us.
Because Bob is receiving an allogeneic transplant (from a donor who has been secured), he faces a high risk of graft-versus-host disease and other serious complications. He’ll need to remain near the hospital for at least six months for regular monitoring and specialized care. He’ll also need a caregiver by his side 24/7—to manage medications, attend appointments, prepare meals, and respond to any emergencies as his immune system rebuilds from the ground up.
Our family is stepping up in every way. We’re taking turns traveling to Richmond to be with him, cook for him, care for him, take him to doctor’s appointments, clean, and remind him every single day how much he is loved. But the costs are staggering — medical bills, medications not fully covered by insurance, temporary housing near the hospital, food, and transportation for rotating caregivers — all during a time when Bob cannot work.
Bob has never asked for much. Despite being legally blind, despite surviving cancer once already, he’s always worked hard and never taken disability. Now we’re asking on his behalf: Please help us give Bob the best chance to survive—and thrive—after this transplant.
Your donation, no matter the amount, will go directly toward:
• Medical bills and medications
• A modest apartment rental near the hospital for six months
• Groceries and meals
• Transportation for family caregivers taking shifts at his side
If you can donate, we are so deeply grateful. If you can’t, please consider sharing this campaign with others who might be able to help. Every donation, every share, every message of encouragement brings us one step closer to getting Bob through this. We will post regular updates on Bob’s recovery on his Facebook page, Bob’s Bone Marrow Recovery Journey, where you can also share words of encouragement.
Thank you for being part of Bob’s village. We can’t do this without you.
With much love, gratitude, and hope,
Bob’s Family
