Gregory Atkins Fund

Gregory Atkins is a retired Army combat veteran who has always given back to his fellow man and his community. He has worked the past three years away from home as a travel nurse helping others as well as volunteered and help set up charity events for children with terminal illnesses and debilitating diseases. Gregory has also participated in Surfers for Autism in Florida. He is a member of the American Legion Riders and enjoys charity rides and poker runs.

Recently two heart attacks have brought to life conditions that he has unknowingly been living with. Being only 49, Greg had no idea that a hereditary disorder was hardening his arteries and causing calcification of his heart. This has resulted in his right jugular artery being 100% blocked causing a stroke and recently two heart attacks.

With his heart only operating at 30% he was to have stents and a triple bypass, but two arteries were too far gone and the heart muscle was too deteriorated to place the grafts. One graft was successful, but only brought the heart capacity to 60%.

Now the only thing left is to monitor for improvement or decline and possible transplant in the future. Since this is a progressive disease we can only prolong the inevitable and try to provide a good quality of life.

Obviously this is a blow to someone so active and outgoing. Since he is not physically able to work, his nursing contract has dropped and he will be left with no income or insurance. Not only does he have a long road to recovery, he will even have a tougher time maintaining health appointments and personal finances. We will be looking for resources but he needs your immediate help to keep his head up and out of water.

By request, the Benevolent Cruisers Foundation has established this donation page for contributions to the Gregory Atkins Fund. All donations received through this page (less fees charged by the credit card processor) will be forwarded to the family to help with medical bills and other expenses. Contributions to this fund are tax deductible to the extent permissable by law. Consult your tax advisor for more information.

If you are willing and able to make a direct financial contribution, please use the form below to do so. For information on setting up other forms of support please reach out to us at or by phone at 513-757-5075.