Paul was a successful florist in Oak Park (at Westgate Flowers) until December 2021 when he suffered his first seizure while at work. This was eventually diagnosed as caused by a brain tumor, Glioblastoma, of the most aggressive type. He underwent radiation treatments and chemotherapy and physical/occupational therapy both inpatient, outpatient, and in day rehabilitation. Due to multiple seizures at various times, his condition rapidly declined. He was admitted to a skilled nursing facility (SNF) at the end of May and has not been home since then. Our plans for use of the grant money are mainly to pay for the SNF which is now out-of-pocket because private insurance cut off his funds due to "failure to progress". I do see him progressing, but it is not according to their criteria. I will also apply the grant funds toward medical transport vehicles to/from doctors appointments and infusion treatments, since he is unable to get into/out of a standard vehicle and cannot walk.
Paul and I have been very happily married for just over 32 years. We started dating when we were in high school , both at the age of 17. We have two daughters, ages 16 and 18. Our youngest attends Northside Prep High School as a Junior this year, and our oldest will be moving away on Monday 8/15/22 to begin college at University of Illinois downstate. I am an Occupational Therapist working with infants and toddlers from birth to age three years (Early Intervention) and am primarily home-based and daycare-based , or doing telehealth sessions. Paul was our primary income-earner but it was my employee health insurance coverage that has supported our family's needs, since the flower shop is a small business. Thank you again for Harley Helping Hands support and generosity. God bless you all.
