NOTE: This story is part of a collection of stories looking back on 2013. Read more of the stories. >>
NAVARRE — After her husband’s decade-long battle with brain cancer ended in September, Joani Garshasb started another fight: to get her husband’s life insurance reinstated and find a way to provide for their sons.
Navid Garshasb, a decorated war veteran, died Sept. 4 at the age of 49. He was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2003 – at the height of his career with the Air Force’s 25th Intelligence Squadron at Hurlburt Field – and given just months to live.
Instead, he was able to spend another 10 years with his wife and two sons, although he had been in and out of hospitals over that time.
After his second stroke, unbeknownst to his family, Garshasb’s life insurance policy lapsed. Despite Joani imploring congressmen and anyone who would listen, she has been unable to get it reinstated.
The family, now saddled with medical bills, remains positive. Donations poured in around the time of Garshasb’s death, but not enough to cover all their debts.
“His family, the problems they are having aren’t likely to go away,” said Nelson Gutierrez, a member of Garshasb’s squadron. “Let’s do what we can to help.”
Gutierrez has organized a fundraiser at 7 p.m. Jan. 10 at Howl at the Moon on Okaloosa Island.
Anyone interested in donating items for auction or purchasing tickets should call 803-3844.