Neal Stockett

****Neal and his family received some really difficult news this week (9/8/15) and he was sent home on Hospice.  Given the gravity of his situation, his family has asked that we cancel the dinner so that they can spend every possible minute with their dad.  The family has opted to do a Giving Tree and special balloon launch for Neal on Saturday, September the 12th @ 7:30pm.  Donation are welcome and appreciated during this difficult time.  Thank you for your giving hearts and understanding! 

There are many titles in this life that a great man can have, grandfather, father, son, brother, uncle, cousin, co-worker, friend and all of these describe in some way the roles that Neal Stockett plays.  Then there are titles that we wish we never had to have or experience…cancer victim being one!  Though this is another title that describes Neal it is one that no one thought he would ever to have to have and it makes our hearts ache!  We want to do something for this fabulous man.  

In late July, Neal was diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer.  From the initial scans and tests it was clear that the cancer had migrated from his pancreas to his liver.  This was a far cry from the possible ulcer or gall bladder diagnosis that was originally thought two weeks prior to the correct diagnosis.  Neal had been feeling sick to his stomach for two weeks and was scheduled for a routine exam.  The pain became too much and he went to the emergency room.  Some initial tests led doctors to believe it was cancer and he was immediately sent to the Huntsman Cancer Institute.  While at Huntsman, he was swarmed by several nurses and doctors who worked on assessing his situation.   At this point, our relatively carefree lives came to an end and we found ourselves living a nightmare!

Neal is the second of six children and went on with his wife, JoAnne, to have six children.  This has in turn produced eight grandchildren.  Each of whom loves and adores their grandfather and struggle watching him not be able to take part in the things he loves because of the treatment for his cancer.  Normally quite active, Neal has been unable to participate in off-roading, racquetball, mountain biking, golfing, or any other activity that gets him outside or spending time with his family.  

With all of the rigors of going through chemo, he maintains a positive attitude and hopes that others take something from his experience that will help them in their lives.  He is always grateful for the positive thoughts and prayers that are expressed daily on his behalf.  Through all of this, he has never questioned his faith in God and his loving son Jesus Christ. If anything, he hopes that others can renew or find their faith in knowing their Heavenly Father loves them and has an eternal plan.

My dad has never been one for attention.  He helps those when they need it and doesn't seek for the recognition of others when doing so.  He is happy for others success, even at times when he has struggled.  He aches for those that hurt and will do what he can to help with the burden.  I can't recall at any time hearing words of complaint over a service opportunity, church calling, or someone asking for technical assistance from one of his many areas of expertise.  He is a loving man that has gone mostly unrecognized except by those he has served.  Many love him and would be honored to do Anything for a Friend!  Please join us.

 

 

Event Details!

Giving Tree and Launch Date: September 12th 2015

Time: 7:30pm--Giving Tree

           8pm--Balloon Launch

Location:  

                  1039 Crestwood Road

                   Kaysville, UT

 

Activities:

                   Bake Sale--in the church parking lot just prior to the launch!

                   Balloon Launch