Markus's Cancer Warrior Fund
On April 7th, 2017, our dear friend and coworker Angel Hoyle received a call that is every mother’s worst nightmare. Her 12-year-old son Markus was injured during a school activity and after x-rays were reviewed, the doctors were concerned about a “spot” they discovered. After multiple CAT scans, MRI’s, and biopsies, it was confirmed that Markus has bone cancer… Osteosarcoma which is very rare, making up only 2-3% of all childhood cancers. There are approximately 400 cases each year, nationwide.
Angel’s life, as well as her family’s life, was turned upside down in a matter of hours… A feeling of helplessness, fear of the unexpected, and sheer terror no mother ever thinks she will have to endure. After receiving this life-changing phone call, Angel immediately flew to Colorado to be by Markus’ s side, where he resides with his biological father and younger brother, Mikah, Angel’s husband, Chief Dallas Hoyle is stationed in Connecticut, where he continues to try to maintain some kind of normalcy with their other two children. Although she may be on the other side of the country, she is a pillar of strength and grace for her entire family, despite her own fears.
The doctors have announced the plan for Markus’s treatment will be extremely aggressive. Two cycles of Chemotherapy lasting 5 weeks each. After the 10 weeks of chemo, he will have surgery to either remove part of his tibia bone, or the bone in its entirety. Then, Markus will endure another 4 cycles of chemotherapy, totaling 20 weeks after surgery. This will put his 12 year old body through 30 total weeks of Chemo and losing part or all of his tibia, if all goes as planned.
On April 27, the surgeon looked over the PET scans. He found 3 lymph nodes and the decision was made; Markus would now begin his first battle against cancer. These three lymph nodes were surgically removed and a Broviac was placed.
On May 3rd Markus started his first round of chemotherapy. May 5th was his first rough day, feeling very sick, unable to eat or drink, and understandably filled with fear. This has all become to real, too fast…
Angel has been a full-time barber at the Navy Exchange for the last two years, but is now unable to work, as she needs to be by her son’s side. As one can imagine, with no income, the travel costs and extra living expenses have started to quickly accumulate and will only continue to as Markus continues his treatment. Not to mention, the costs that will surely pile up as medical expenses continue to grow.
We are asking for your help for our friend Angel and her son, so she can remain by his side through this devastating time, and to lessen the financial burden this will surely take on their family. Your contribution, even if it’s $5, or just sharing this story could make a big difference in the lives of the Hoyle family. No family should ever have to worry about money while fighting for a loved one’s life. So please contribute if you can or share this story! Thank you and God bless you all!
