Dear Friends

Rick  passed away quietly last night.   He was diagnosed just 4 weeks ago and we are still reeling from the speed with which this has happened. A memorial service for him will be held on Saturday, March 19, 2011, at 11 AM at St. George's Episcopal Church, Main Street, Durham, NH, 03824. Donations in Rick's memory may be made to the Rick Harding Memorial Fund, c/o the Derryfield School 2108 N. River Road, Manchester, NH 03104. 
Please keep the comments coming! We find such strength in knowing how much he touched so many people in such a profound way.

Dear Friends

Earlier this month, complaints about a pulled muscle brought Rick Harding into the doctor's office. A muscle on his side was giving him pain and seemed to be swelling.


The doctor quickly ascertained that this was not a muscle at all, but a tumorous mass. Multiple tests, CT scans and a biopsy were immediately ordered.


On Monday the 14th of February, he was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. This is a rapidly-growing cancer, which has now metastasized to his bones and brain.

In addition to the apple- sized lump on his rib, he also has a
metastasis in a vertebra of his lower back, as well as in his mouth.

Even more frighteningly, there are three metastases in the parietal lobe of his brain.  All of theses are surgically inoperable.  He has been advised to stop driving due to the fact that the brain tumors may impair his executive judgment brain function and decision making
skills.


The doctor recommended starting a combination of chemotherapy and radiation immediately. 
Without treatment, the doctor estimates that he has about 2-3
months to live. However, with aggressive chemotherapy and radiation, he could make it two years - or longer!!!

*How You Can Help:
Ranger Rick has been a father, a husband, a brother, a teacher, a coach and a friend. We would love it if each one of you reading this could leave him a comment of hope and love. Please share a story about how Rick has influenced you, helped you or even made you laugh. You can leave the comment at the bottom of this page by clicking "comments", or send it to RangerRickInfo@gmail.com . 

On behalf of the whole Harding family, we thank you from the bottom of
our hearts!




Linda, Joshua, Amy, Drew, Alec and Robin