News Summary
The HunterSeven Foundation has successfully organized a fundraising campaign to assist Sgt. First Class David Hong, a veteran battling stage 4 colon cancer. Initially facing insurance hurdles, the community came together to raise over $50,000 for a crucial medical procedure. This effort not only aids Hong but also supports other veterans in need, emphasizing the importance of community and advocacy in addressing healthcare challenges faced by service members.
Rhode Island – The HunterSeven Foundation, a Rhode Island-based nonprofit organization, has mobilized community support to assist Sgt. First Class David Hong, who has been battling stage 4 colon cancer for nearly three years. After facing challenges with his health insurance, the organization quickly organized a fundraising effort to cover the costs of a critical, non-invasive procedure that was initially denied by Tricare.
Sgt. Hong’s health complications began to escalate after undergoing multiple surgeries, including a major operation to remove parts of his liver and stomach wall. As part of his ongoing treatment plan, he was seeking histotripsy, an FDA-approved procedure noted for its less invasive nature. The urgency of his condition prompted the HunterSeven Foundation to act swiftly in fundraising efforts, which they categorized as time-sensitive to ensure that he could receive the necessary care.
The fundraising campaign successfully exceeded its original goal of $45,000, bringing in over $50,000. This financial boost underscores a strong sense of community support and solidarity in the face of adversity. Hong expressed profound gratitude for the contributions and assistance he received from individuals and organizations in the community, emphasizing how the collective effort reinforced his resolve in the battle against cancer.
In addition to helping Sgt. Hong, the HunterSeven Foundation announced that the additional funds raised will be allocated to assist other veterans and military service members who are in need of medical support and treatment. This broader mission of the organization reflects a commitment to aiding those who have served in the military, particularly as they navigate health challenges that arise due to their service.
The HunterSeven Foundation focuses on empowering veterans and military families. It seeks to raise awareness about the challenges faced by service members, especially those grappling with health issues like cancer. The foundation emphasizes the importance of community involvement in supporting these individuals, who often require financial and emotional assistance as they pursue treatment and recovery.
Sgt. Hong’s plight is illustrative of a larger issue faced by many veterans, highlighting gaps within military health care systems. The denial from Tricare for the histotripsy procedure raised alarms about the complexities of obtaining timely and appropriate medical treatment for veterans diagnosed with serious illnesses. Advocacy efforts by organizations like the HunterSeven Foundation aim to address these challenges and provide a voice for those affected by systemic healthcare barriers.
As these organizations continue their mission, efforts parallel ongoing discussions about improving the military health care system, ensuring that service members are supported when dealing with their medical needs. The success of the HunterSeven Foundation’s fundraising efforts not only highlights the community’s commitment to supporting its veterans but also serves as a call to address and reform the healthcare provided to service members in a more comprehensive manner.
With the extra funds intended to reach a wider audience of veterans, the HunterSeven Foundation illustrates how a community can come together to make a real difference in the lives of those who have sacrificed for their country. The commitment to supporting veterans amid health crises remains a crucial part of ensuring that these individuals receive the recognition, care, and assistance they deserve.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- WPRI: RI-based nonprofit helps Army sergeant receive life-saving cancer treatment
- Google Search: Rhode Island cancer treatment
- Turnto10: First patient in Rhode Island receives novel gamma tile treatment for glioblastoma
- Google Scholar: glioblastoma treatment Rhode Island
- GoLocalProv: One Man’s Story About Fighting Cancer at One of Rhode Island’s Bankrupt Hospitals
- Encyclopedia Britannica: cancer treatment
- Providence Journal: Joe Biden’s prostate cancer diagnosis prompts support from RI
- Google News: Joe Biden prostate cancer
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
