The Northwest Arkansas community is rallying around a local man as he prepares for treatment at the Mayo Clinic. Following numerous fundraisers, thousands of dollars have been donated to 31-year-old TJ Cluck of Rogers.
The father of three is battling a rare lung disease called sarcoidosis for which there is no cure. Treatment options are available at the Mayo Clinic, but Cluck’s insurance will not cover the visit. In fact, he said it’s about $5,000 just to walk through the door.
So Cluck setup a GoFundMe account, but said he never expected such an overwhelming response.
“Within 24 hours, over $10,000 was raised from this amazing community that we live in," Cluck said.
Blown away by the generosity, Cluck said he wants to do for others what the community has been doing for him. He’s now in the process of starting the Take Action Foundation, to make sure those who are struggling know there are people who care and people who are willing to help.
“Every single cent that's donated to me and my kids, for me to get better for my kids, will be paid forward by the Take Action Foundation," Cluck said.
Nearly $16,000 has been raised through the GoFundMe account, and that number continues to grow. Cluck leaves for the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN on Tuesday, September 8th, but there's one more fundraiser Monday evening at JJ’s in Rogers. Nazario Speedwagon will be playing at the event, which starts at 6.
To learn more about Cluck, his battle with sarcoidosis, and how you can make a donation – click here.