My sweet starby. I wish I could help you out financially but count on my daughter for the basic foods and food for Larry myself. So sorry that Nicki has to go through this, but she has you to be there for her and knows how much you love and care. How old is she? If she's still young and might just have pneumonia, she should do better with antibiotics and lots of rest, no drafts and soft food so that her esophagus does not get more irritated. Or, she could have swallowed something wrong for her stomach - this too can be helped most of the time. I hope that you'll let me know what the diagnosis is after the tests are done.
As for the money, call your Mom and just plain tell her you need her help - she's your mother for goodness sake and should be there for you - or yell your head off until your father hears what's going on. I'm sure that he would not let his little girl suffer so much - no matter if your Mom feels he should not be bothered - he's a human and should be able to make these decisions himself.
While you are there holding and comforting Nicki, I am there holding and comforting you, my dear. Larry and I will be patiently waiting for further news, OK... You've been through hell and back and don't deserve this - wish I could change things for you with all my heart.
Keep us posted honey,
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