I am in the fight of my life. Stage four cancer. More than 70 radiation treatments, over 20 chemotherapy infusions, two grueling rounds of immunotherapy, and a five hour radical neck dissection. Now my vocal cords are damaged.
For the last decade, I built a career in IT contracts, but I lost my previous job. I believe it was because of my voice, but I will never truly know. I have applied for Social Security Disability Insurance. Even with stage four cancer and qualifying for the compassionate care exemption, the government still requires a mandatory five month wait before any payment is made. I cannot file for unemployment insurance or I will become ineligible for Social Security disability. Since my wife’s income is above the poverty level, we do not qualify for most grants or assistance.
This leaves me trapped in a painful gray area.
I cannot work.
I cannot get disability payments for five months.
I cannot claim unemployment.
We do not qualify for assistance.
And the medical debt is piling up fast.
Focusing on what matters
I know there are others who have it worse, but this is my reality. The one thing I need to do right now is focus on my health and beating this disease. I want to pray, heal, and be here for my family. But the stress of bills and survival is always there, pressing down like a weight that never lifts. Some days, it feels unbearable.
The only things that get me through are prayers, love, and the support of family, friends, and kind people like you. Every card, every message, every share of my story, and every donation — no matter the size — has helped keep me going. You are the reason I can keep my head up when the days feel darkest.
I do not want to beg. I want to be productive. I want the chance to live and to keep fighting without the fear of losing everything. Your support is making a difference. Instead of drowning in worry, I am breathing with hope.
God bless you for reading this.
I love you all.
Wayne
Wayne has been fighting cancer with courage and faith. Let’s rally around him—your gift, no matter the size, brings healing hope and eases the financial burden. Donate today.