PRIEST RIVER, Idaho-- A North Idaho community is trying to help one of their own through a difficult time. Neighbors in Priest River are working to raise money to help an Iraq war veteran cope with terminal cancer.
Kelly O’Brien says he joined the army right after September 11th, 2001 and served in Iraq until 2004. He says he believes troops did 72 raids during his time there.
When O’Brien returned home, doctors eventually made a life-changing discovery. O’Brien says he thought he was having a heart attack one night. He says he experienced severe chest pains. When he saw a doctor, he says they found a large mass in his chest. Doctors told him the mass was in his heart and was a rare form of cancer called synovial sarcoma.
Doctors told O’Brien it was one of the largest tumors in UCLA history that they had ever seen.
To help O’Brien, his hometown is raising money to pay for medical expenses. Many local businesses have buckets to collect donations for O’Brien.
Kelly’s brother Tracy says the amount of support the community has shown already is unbelievable.
“We’re just overwhelmed with everyone that has stepped up to the plate,” Tracy said. “It’s a blessing. We are very fortunate and grateful.”
As the hero fights a new battle, he says he continues to have the support of his community and the will to check each dream off of his life-long list.
“I’m blessed to wake up in the morning and thank God for every new day that I have.” Kelly said.
If you would like to help Kelly, there is an account set up in his name at Wells Fargo.
