This is Alec, one of our own helped by Lincoln Charities. Read below for his story.
In January of 2015, Lincoln Charities helped Alec Lea. Mr. Lea is a Lead Service Technician for Lincoln in San Antonio, Texas. During his more than seven years with the company, he has been given several awards for his excellent work including Assistant Maintenance Tech of the year in 2007, and the Spirit of Lincoln award in 2009. Mr. Lea’s wife, Michelle, is also a long-time employee with Lincoln Property Company.
Late in 2014 Mr. Lea was diagnosed with Follicular Dendritic Cell Sarcoma, a rare form of cancer found in the jaw. Surgeons were able to remove a large tumor from his jaw. However, to fully treat the illness a rigorous radiation treatment was prescribed that would require five day a week radiation treatments for six weeks. While doctors were optimistic that the surgery and radiation would be an effective way to mitigate the cancer, the side effects of the treatment could lead to Osteoradionecrosis, or loss of his jawbone, if certain preventative dental procedures were not completed before radiation. Because the extensive dental work was not covered by medical insurance, only a small portion would be covered by the Leas’ dental insurance plan. Even with the dental oncologist offering a discount, the out of pocket expenses for this urgent work would still be more than Mr. Lea could afford. The situation was further exacerbated by the fact that Mrs. Lea suffered a heart attack in 2013, and while she has fully recovered, they are still catching up financially as a result.
Without sufficient savings, and no family who could help, Mrs. Lea submitted the request to provide assistance for the cost of her husband’s desperately needed dental work. Because of the generous donations by employees, residents, vendors and business partners, Lincoln Charities was able to assist the Leas by covering Alec’s out of pocket dental expenses. Doctors are optimistic that this will ensure his teeth and jaw remain intact after the radiation treatments are completed. Thanks again to all who donate to Lincoln Charities; it is through your goodwill that we are able to assist valued members of the Lincoln family. Read more about Lincoln Charities by clicking here.
