Tooth problem? No. Sinus issue? Nope. Brain tumour?
Whatever John Willis had, it was an obvious concern. A concern that would be revealed on a fourth trip to a hospital emergency department after the Vernon resident woke up with trails of blood blisters over his body.
Leukemia.
“They determined I have Burkitts Lymphoma, a rare strain more common in Africa than the Okanagan,” said Willis, whose friends call him Jake.
The Vernon resident was rushed by air ambulance to Vancouver General Hospital Easter weekend to begin a course of treatment.
Willis’ next phase of treatment will be as an outpatient. However, he cannot go home to Vernon as he must report daily for more chemo and evaluation.
Housing as an outpatient is not covered by The Medical Services Plan or Group Plan Coverage.
“In other words, I need to have a safe clean place to live near the hospital. For six months. In the most expensive city in North America,” said Willis, whose wife, Bari, is with him.
“We are in shock,” said Bari. “This is Canada. We have worked all our lives, faithfully paying our portion. We have trusted that a horrific diagnosis would not cause financial ruination as well.
“We are here hoping that there is something that can be done for us, and the other families from communities other than the Vancouver area who find themselves gravely ill and in need of support.”
A GoFundMe page has been started for Willis and, as of noon Monday, had raised nearly $7,200 of a goal of $20,000 to be used for housing costs between now and September.
“It is so hard to ask for help,” said Willis, who is determined to beat the disease. “I can’t wait to kick this cancer and start giving back. Your friendship, prayers and assistance will mean, well, everything to me and Bari.”
To help, the page can be found at gofundme.com/johnwilliscancer.
