Joey Richman had finally started to feel normal after fighting a life-threatening genetic disorder that killed his kidneys. But all of that changed after a routine check-up confirmed the worst.

  • Joey Richman survived a kidney transplant earlier this year
  • He's just been diagnosed with cancer as a result of the transplant
  • In addition, his family's home is in foreclosure
  • A GoFundMe.com page has been set up by the family

Earlier this year after telling the community about his fight, Joey, 22, got his kidney transplant thanks to a local  MMA fighter – and for a while – he and his family were getting back on track

“He was still recovering from the transplant,” explained his mother, Dana Richman, “and finally had reached a stage of acceptance, like it’s really in me, it’s really working, it’s really going to be OK. He was getting excited for picking his classes for USF next month.”

When he walked into the doctor’s office, he knew the news wasn’t good. Eight physicians were present. He was expecting two.

 “Not what I was expecting to be told when I showed up,” said Joey.

His cancer is a type of lymphoma caused by the kidney transplant. Physicians say it’s very rare – only about 2 percent of transplant patients get it, and it usually doesn’t develop until years later.

“It’s a lot of emotions,” said Joey.

Unfortunately, the new diagnosis isn’t the only obstacle the Richman family is dealing with. The family’s home is in foreclosure.  Right now they say they’re trying to figure out how to stay afloat.

“My son is terrified,” said Dana. “He knows that right now he’s dying and he’s terrified. Not only does he want his mother but he needs me. There’s appointments almost every day and he’s very ill.”

Without the support of his family, Joey says he wouldn't have the energy to fight as hard as he does.

“Without my family,” he started, “I don’t think I’d be able to push nearly as hard as I am.”

He has five more rounds of chemo.

The family has a GoFundMe.com page to help with expenses.

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