Ron Haralson, Chicago, IL

2008 Chicago Summer Happy Hour Recipient

Since 2006, after the passing of his father, Ron Haralson had become the sole caregiver of his mother.  His mother had a long battle with stomach cancer and was in her third remission.  Since the initial news of her cancer, he moved out of his house and in with his mother to take care of her.  In January 2008, Ron was diagnosed with multiple melanomas.  He had bone cancer in his right hip, knee and ankle.  In addition, he also had skin tissue cancer.  He was receiving chemo and radiation and had to leave his job after receiving the difficult medical news.  Although he belonged to a union, there was no sick time or time off with his medical benefits.  Funds raised at the Summer Happy Hour helped with living expenses while he received treatment.

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