They fit all the rules for our Pay 6 Forward stories:
*You can't keep the money yourself
*You can't give it to a relative or someone you live with
*The money needs to go to a friend or a neighbor or someone from a church group who is going through a particularly hard time.
*That person has to be available RIGHT THEN for the surprise!
Kevin and Sandy told us about their friend.
"He has an inoperable brain tumor. He's a great guy. He took me camping my whole life. He's got kids and a nice family and everything."
Henry, or "Harry" Regan was diagnosed with an in operable brain tumor just a few months ago. With mounting bills and nowhere to turn, the community is trying help out.
"A lot of people here don't have money, living pay check to pay check. So it's hard for any one person to give them a lump sum exactly."
We immediately decided to Pay 6 Forward to Harry. "So what do you think if we just take off right now and surprise him?" I asked.
The surprise was on us... Nobody answered at his home in Glendora. Suddenly Kevin went to the side of the house and told Harry to get out of the shower!
Finally, Harry came down and we explained Pay 6 Forward. Harry's not the type to ask for help. His wife sold his truck while he was in the hospital and they're all just doing what they can to make it.
"I'm sure even with insurance, I guess mounting medical bills are astronomical," Harry said. "They are continuing to mount but what are you going to do?"
He told us he's been overwhelmed by the support.
"It means a lot when you think nobody cares, you see that everybody else cares."
Then it came time to Pay 6 Forward. Harry was grateful, to receive the gift.
"I'd like to thank my friends and Channel 6 for coming out and giving me this little pleasure here."
"I've never had $600 where I can say, 'Here ya go!' I hope it makes it better for you," Kevin said "Especially to someone who has always been nice to me and taken me places and hope it's a payback to him."
Harry's friends and family are holding a benefit for him this Saturday. You can follow this link to get more information about the Beef and Beer Benefit that Harry's friends are planning.
We also have a new part of our Pay 6 Forward series underway. Just follow this link and tell us how you plan to pay it forward. Action News just might show up to help with your surprise.
