On August 26, 2005, Robert (Bob) Pukitis of Burien suffered a near fatal heart attack while vacationing near Spokane with his wife, Nan-C-Lee.

Initially she was informed that he most likely would not survive. However, doctors were able to get him stable enough to perform a surgical procedure in which they implanted a mechanical heart in his abdomen.

Unfortunately this is only a temporary solution. Bob is currently on the list to receive a heart transplant.

Needless to say, the medical bills are accumulating daily, as are their every day bills. Bob and Nan-C-Lee make their home in Burien, but are currently renting an apartment in Spokane to be near Sacred Heart Medical Center. They are hoping that Bob will soon be stable enough to transfer home.

However, even after receiving the much needed transplant, Bob will be permanently disabled and unable to work. He worked for Glen Grant for over 16 years, and was recently employed at Burien Chevrolet. Nan-C-Lee will also be unable to work due to the fact that Bob will need 24-hour care.

Their three sons are helping out as best as they can, but the financial debt is immense. I am asking the community to help out this wonderful couple in any way you can.

A website has been created where you can read more of their story as well as donate via Paypal or major credit card.

Please visit www.pleasehelpbob.com.

In addition, there is a fund set up at Wells Fargo Bank in Robert Pukitis's name.

Any donation - large or small - would be an act of pure unselfish kindness and greatly appreciated. I urge you to do what you can for this deserving family. Thank you.

Laura Johnson

Burien