Toonertoo,Kind of hesitant to reply, could be a number of things. With out seeing the vehicle to properly diagnose and knowing little about the past history. I'm thinking it is more then just a fluid level issue. Sounds more like at the very least a rebuild will need done. if reverse has gone out, loosing 1st gear will probably be next in the near future.
Options would depend on a number of things, How much you want or can afford, how long you plan on keeping the truck.
--valvebody & filter replacement
--replace with a used tranny
--partial or full rebuild
--replace with a new tranny
When you do get a chance, best to have somebody knowledgable to look at it closer to give you a better idea of just what your looking at far as options. Obviously the quickiest and cheapest repair would be desirable, but really hard to give an educated diagnosis on the board here.
PS, I hope things do work out for your husband, hang in there.