Rex,

   You have my prayers and best wishes.  I bought a ticket and wish I could do more.  I'll try to remember and get another one next month.  Try not to be to hard on the folks that got down on you thinking you were a scammer.  I'm an ex-cop and my first thoughts (even when seeing your post here at sqlservercentral.com) was "Is this a scam?".  Unfortunately there are a lot of people out there that will take advantage of others generosity by concocting such a story.  The really terrible thing about those type of people is not how despicable they are, but that they take money that might otherwise go to someone who truly needs it. 

   There are a lot of folks in similar situations and it is unfortunate we can't help them all.  However we tend to notice the ones that make the most noise, so as a father your doing exactly the right thing by making as much noise as you can.  Keep shouting, there is nothing wrong with asking for help.  

   Just two days ago I was complaining about the cost of sending my daughter to college (she starts this fall, Computer Engineering).  After reading your story I was reminded that there are a lot worse things to have to worry about.  While my contribution is small, I hope there will be many such small contributions and that they can help make a difference for you and your family.   

   I also wanted to add my thanks to Steve Jones and Red-Gate for taking the time and this forum to allow us an opportunity to help a colleague.  I know you can't do it very often but it is nice to be able to every now an then.  When I was in the Military and as Police Officer we always had "Funds" that we contributed to, to help our own when in need.  I'm glad to see a little of that here among Technology Professionals.  We can't help everyone but we can make a difference for some and that's a start.

Best wishes to all,

James.