September 21st, 2007 at 2:32 am
(This happens to be the 24 year old stepson of J’s Aunt)
In November of 2006, three weeks before graduating from the Delaware County Municipal Police Academy, Steve was diagnosed with a very rare and aggressive form of cancer known as neuronendocrine cancer. He underwent chemotherapy and radiation treatments and had a large tumor surgically removed from his neck. After countless scans, dozens of pain killers and a few too many trips to the doctor, Steve completely conquered the cancer. His only worry was repaying his astronomical medical fees which he learned would not be covered by his new insurance policy. He then discovered that the advice he’d gotten from the public assistance office was incorrect. Much of the financial aid received while undergoing his treatments now needs to be paid back.
Less than two months passed before the cancer returned, and as is so often the case was stronger than ever. A new scan revealed tumors and traces of the disease in his spine, chest and neck. In response, he was given three new forms of chemotherapy. The doctors are confident in the treatment they have administered but are concerned with the speed and aggressive nature of the cancer’s return. Steve left the hospital with an oxygen tank due to a large tumor in his chest which makes it hard to breathe. He must return to the hospital every three weeks for treatment, and has been told that going to work is out of the question. The day-to-day for Steve is very stressful, but generally, he keeps himself very positive. He hasn’t lost his sense of humor at all. Those who know Steve will not be surprised by this information.
A FRIEND IN NEED
We need your help to raise money for Steve. His focus needs to be fighting this cancer, not fighting insurance companies. If we can help to repay his debts and lessen his burden, we’ll have made a big difference. We’re going to do this by reaching out to the community and starting a project entitled “Coins for Kunitsky”. We will be starting this project very soon with the help of many great volunteers!
Anyone interested in helping – whether it’s setting a can on the counter in your place of business, distributing fliers, donating raffle prizes/silent-auction items or giving a financial contribution, we’ll take it. No donation of time or money or ideas is too big or small.
Our GMIS coin contest will be starting as soon as possible. If anyone would like to help or knows of a business that may want to contribute, the information is below. Checks or money orders can be made out to the Stephen J Kunitsky Fund and mailed directly to:
The Stephen J Kunitsky Fund
c/o Susquehanna Patriot Bank
46 W Main St
Fleetwood, PA 19522
Steve, his family, and his friends thank you.
You can also donate online (with Paypal) through the The Official Stephen J Kunitsky Fund Website.
6 Responses to “A Friend In Need”
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CatherineL said: @ 6:31 am
September 21st, 2007
Hi Mel - This is terrible. It must be bad enough having to deal with cancer without the stress of the financial burden. And you have to wonder if the financial stress contributed to the cancer coming back. I hope your Stephen is able to beat it.
And I will be happy to offer a little help, perhaps with some online campaigning?
Does the website accept cards? If not, I have a currency account and I’m sure they’ll do a cheque for me.
The Foo said: @ 7:11 am
September 21st, 2007
catherine: it would be great if you could do some online campaigning… spread the word! his family has setup a paypal donate link on his website. thanks so much!
Janet said: @ 7:52 am
September 21st, 2007
Mel, I will gladly donate a piece of artwork for a silent auction/raffle.
The Foo said: @ 4:17 pm
September 22nd, 2007
Thanks Janet, i just replied in an email.
Angela K said: @ 1:43 pm
September 29th, 2007
I am so very sorry to hear this news. Peace and blessings to your family. I will be thinking of how I can help and fortunately have a little extra this month I can send. No one should have to go through this, and my heart just hurts for your family. Lots of love and light to Steve and all who love him.
The Foo said: @ 2:53 pm
September 29th, 2007
@ Angela:
Thanks for the peace and blessings. Yes, no one should have to go through this — at this stage, hope is strong thing.