Doug Bullard received some devastating news in June 2014, but he isn’t letting the diagnosis that he had the Big “C” dampen his spirits or take control of his life.

“It wasn’t news I wanted to hear, but it’s nice that others are coming together to help me out during this time,” Bullard said, referring to a benefit being planned to help him with the financial constraints a cancer diagnosis can often leave one facing.

Bullard was diagnosed with multiple myeloma and amyloidosis — both non-curable forms of the disease.

Clement Baptist Church and the church Brotherhood are hosting a benefit Jan. 6 at the church to raise funds for Bullard’s medical expenses and his family. A spaghetti plate dinner will be served from 5-8 p.m. and available for eat-in or take-out. There is no price for the plates, just donations as one sees fit.

According to Bullard, he takes chemotherapy treatments every two weeks and will do so for the next three years. In February, he received a stem cell transplant. Because his immune system is weakened, he receives frequent shots.

Bullard, who is a member of Clement Baptist Church, said he was overwhelmed at the outpouring of love his church family and the Clement community are showering over him.

“It’s all very emotional,” he attested. “While the money will help, it’s nice that people are coming together and doing something for me and my family. It’s just so heart felt.”

In today’s society, Bullard was quick to point out, many people don’t care about others, but that isn’t what the Clement community is showing, nor is it what the people in that area are about.

“It’s great that people care about me,” he asserted.

Throughout his sickness, Bullard said he has received a great deal of outreach and prayer — all of which has been overwhelming.

“People don’t just do this kind of thing anymore,” he stressed. “I have gotten cards every day from so many people. It’s a great feeling coming home and finding those cards in the mail. In many ways, it’s overwhelming.”

But at the same time, it is also much appreciated.

“I’ll never be able to explain what this has meant to me and my family.”

Bullard’s chemotherapy treatments are being done at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, but his physicians are at UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill. Driving to Fayetteville was better for Bullard, so his doctors arranged for the treatments to be done in Fayetteville.

In January, Bullard will visit his doctor’s again to address his weakened immune system.

Bullard is married and has two children and four grandchildren. He is surrounded by family, living on a family farm with his sisters close by.

“We are really close,” Bullard said. “My family has been very supportive during my sickness. It’s nice knowing that you have someone like them around.”

Fore more information on the benefit, or how you can help the Bullard family, please call the church at 910-567-6777.

Reach Kristy D. Carter at 910-592-8137, ext. 2588. Follow us on Twitter at @SampsonInd. Like us on Facebook.

By Kristy D. Carter

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