This past week my family received shocking, devastating news. A week ago today, our father Michael Bates, was diagnosed with liver cancer with a large mass presenting in his CT scans.
This week has felt like lifetimes trying to navigate our complicated health care system plagued with long wait times, poor communication, and lack of urgency as we try to set him up for a fighting chance at life.
He is a veteran and the provider for his family. He has served his country and worked tirelessly his entire life to support the many people who have relied on him as a leader and provider.
My dad is loved by many. He is a friend, a husband, a son, a brother, a father to 7 children, and “pa” to 4 young grandchildren with many more to come. He himself is only 56 years old. We will do whatever it takes to ensure that he is able to spend more time with us.
We are currently asking for any contributions as we try to navigate testing and cancer treatments through the VA and UVA with no insurance. He is also a diabetic, causing complications with possible treatment avenues.
No amount of money is too little and any money at all we will be forever grateful for.
Thank you so much for your love and support for our family during this extremely difficult time.
We love and appreciate you all.
