Help a Vietnam Veteran and His Family in Their Time of Need

Honor. Sacrifice. Service. These are the values my father, an 81-year-old decorated Vietnam War veteran, has lived by. Now, in the face of overwhelming challenges, I’m asking for your help to honor his sacrifices and ensure he receives the care he so deeply deserves.

My father served his country in the Marine Corps from 1966 to 1968, enduring the hardships of combat and daily exposure to Agent Orange. Today, he is battling late-stage Parkinson's disease, along with numerous other health issues directly tied to his exposure to Agent Orange during his two tours of duty. He has a feeding tube for essential nutrition and medications since he also has a condition where the epiglottis is partially paralyzed. This makes choking a real hazard and does happen. His health is declining rapidly, and his personal care needs grow more demanding each week.

My mother, who is 80 years old and has her own health struggles, has been his primary caregiver. Her devotion is endless, but the physical and emotional toll is becoming too much for her to bear alone. Almost a year ago, I left my 24-year career to step in as a secondary caregiver through the VA, providing the support they desperately needed. However, the VA has since cut those benefits, leaving us in an incredibly difficult position.

Why I’m Asking for Your Help

My personal savings are nearly depleted as I’ve been balancing my mortgage, monthly bills, and caregiving responsibilities. Moving in with my parents may become a necessity at some point to provide the level of care my father requires, but this comes with sacrifices. I cannot take on full-time employment due to the time-intensive nature of caregiving—up to 12 hours a day, and more.

To make matters worse, my sibling, who lives closer to our parents; has chosen not to assist. This leaves the responsibility of care entirely on my shoulders. I live an hour away and commute daily since I also have personal home responsibilities.

How Your Support Will Make a Difference

Your donation, no matter how big or small, will go directly toward:

• Caregiving Support: Covering my daily expenses to ensure my father gets the care he needs while easing my mother’s burden.
• Basic Living Expenses: Helping me pay my mortgage, utilities, and other bills so I can continue to focus on caring for my parents.
• Sustaining Hope: Giving my family a lifeline to navigate the next six months without the fear of financial ruin.

My Goal: Six months of living expenses

I’m seeking $18,000 to help us get through this challenging time. This amount will allow me to dedicate my time fully to caring for my parents while keeping myself afloat financially for the next six months. After that time, I may have to ask for help again. I just don’t know.

Why This Matters

My father fought for our freedom and served his country with courage and honor. Now, in his time of need, I want to ensure he receives the same commitment and care he gave to his fellow soldiers and our nation.

Veterans, their families, and those who support them understand the unique sacrifices that come with service. My father’s battle didn’t end in Vietnam—it continues today, and I refuse to let him fight it alone.

If you can help, please do—every contribution makes a difference. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this page with others who may want to help is equally valuable.

Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support. Together, we can honor a hero and make sure he and my mother are cared for in their most difficult days.