Michael Prunier

 

Michael Prunier, a 47 year old father of two lovely daughters and a soon-to-be first-time grandfather, was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2004. He has been in remission twice, but in 2012 the lymphoma came back aggressively. Michael has been fighting a difficult battle for many years and has managed to stay positive, continue to work, and look forward to the future.
While receiving treatment, Michael has done his best to continue working as a diesel mechanic. Much of the work he is required to do is very strenuous and has become impossible given the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation. Fortunately, Michael’s employer has offered him light duty tasks inside the office so that he can continue to work and maintain his medical insurance.
Even with insurance, the out-of-pocket expenses are extremely difficult to manage. There have been many times where Michael was unable to go into work as a result of feeling too weak or sick. This has resulted in decreased wages and an increased difficulty to cover all of his necessary medical expenses.
Michael is also facing another financial barrier. Currently his only treatment option is a stem cell transplant. Michael’s brother, an Air Force Sergeant, has thankfully been identified as a match, but before Michael can undergo the procedure he must once again achieve remission. His doctor is recommending him to go to the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, WA to find out the best way to achieve this.
Michael and his family will have to figure out how to pay for the trip to Seattle, which can range from 3 to 12 months depending on how he reacts to the treatment. They will need to cover lodging, transportation, living expenses, COBRA fees, and caregiver expenses, as someone will be required to stay with him full-time.
Michael and his family have tried their best to cover all of the medical needs themselves, but they realized they need the help and generosity of others as well. They have joined with the Bone Marrow & Cancer Foundation to open this One-to-One Fund to help cover the costs of Michael’s extensive treatment. They are extremely thankful for any support.
Click here to contribute to Michael’s One-to-One Fund
Or you can send a check, payable to the Bone Marrow & Cancer Foundation.
Be sure to include Michael’s name on the front of the check.
Send check to:
the Bone Marrow & Cancer Foundation
515 Madison Avenue, Suite 1130
New York, New York 10022