Uncle Rodney is a veteran who is wheelchair bound, blind, deaf in one ear & has limited hearing in his other ear. He has been living in a nursing home facility in Florida for four years.
As direct communication with Rodney via telephone can be difficult, dad found out at Christmas time that his big brother had been abandoned at the nursing home eight months prior by his long time companion of 25 years. She rented out the house, took his beloved Pomeranian dogs & moved three states away from him. She has no intention of bringing Rodney closer to her new home.
Rodney has been without company visiting him now for eleven months. My dad, who was diagnosed with bladder cancer one month ago and will have additional expenses of his own, wants to bring his brother HOME to North Dakota. Dad has been consulting with the Veterans Administration for guidance in transferring to a local VA skilled nursing facility & learned it will cost $15,500 to transport Uncle Rodney home to live his life near family who love him. Dad is prepared to commit $5,000 and I want to help ease the financial burden of the remainder. Therefore our goal has been set for $10,500.
This is a big chunk a change. Sadly, Uncle Rodney requires the assistance of a skilled nurse along on an air ambulance flight. We have looked into volunteer flights for such needs, but we are finding that he does not fill the requirements of being able to board the plane himself and up to 1,000 miles when our route will be closer to 2,000 miles. But I know what an amazing, kind and hilarious man he is. The twinkle in his eye, as seen here in my favorite photo, forever warms my heart & he deserves to be surrounded by family who love him & want him in their lives. Uncle Rodney's physical health and abilities will not improve, however, our love and support can nurture and sustain his mental and spiritual health in the years he remains with us on earth.
If this story has moved you at any level, please know that no amount is too small. Every cent is greatly appreciated. Money is not the only way to help. As we know, funds are tight.... but sharing our story with your network of family & friends who may have a couple dollars to share can make a huge impact on our family plea. Thank you for your time today in reading Uncle Rodney's story.