New dad facing cancer

By Ida Brown
ibrown@themeridianstar.com

Mississippi has the distinction of being the most giving state in the U.S. and I honestly believe that Meridian is one of the most giving cities. Whenever and wherever there has been a need, local residents step up to the challenge – often above and beyond what is required.

So here is the latest challenge...

Twenty-nine-year-old Rick Nowell of Meridian is the proud father of a baby girl, Hannah Morgan, born Feb. 5 (one day shy of six weeks as of this writing). But instead of the joys of first-time fatherhood, Rick is faced with the complications of aplastic anemia, a rare blood disease. His sister, Regina Miller, is a match donor for a bone marrow transplant, however, Rick has no insurance and is unable to work.

The family has accrued an astronomical amount of medical bills – for several months he has traveled to UMC in Jackson for weekly tranfusions (which is costly at today's gas prices) – and the estimated expenses for the transplant is more than $250,000.

Before his diagnosis, Rick was employed by Leading Edges advertising agency. With a successful transplant, he hopes to return to work. He is a graduate of Southeast High School and Meridian Community College and a member of Salem Baptist Church.

A fund has been established in Rick's name to help defray the financial burden of the medical costs and expenses. You may make a donation at any of the branches of Citizens National Bank.

You never know just how good you have it until you hear about someone else's troubles. When I talked to Rick's mother earlier today, she was so worried. Rick underwent the first of a series of chemotheraphy treatments necessary to prepare him for the transplant and had several convulsions. Doctors hope to be able to resume the treatments soon, she said.

In addition to financial assistance, the family is also asking for prayers and encouragment during this difficult time. I hope residents will give on all levels – prayerfully, thoughfully and financially.