At the age of 51 years old, Clete Dodson, husband, father, and grandfather of ten,  was diagnosed with Stage IV glioblastoma multiforme. This has been a whirlwind since the diagnosis, as there were not really any symptoms until Clete was forced to go to the ER for what was thought to be a stroke. An MRI revealed the mass in his brain and he underwent surgical resection on June 4, 2019. Since the surgery, Clete has almost completely lost the use of his left arm and his left leg is very weak. The surgery itself went very well, but it is the recovery and aftercare that has become very challenging and costly.

Glioblastomas are aggressive brain tumors, and grade IV is the most malignant. They form when glial cells in your brain divide and multiply at a rapid rate, therefore they grow rather quickly. Now that he has had the surgical resection, Clete will need to undergo chemo for a year, and radiation to his brain as well. The radiation treatments will be five days a week for 6-8 weeks.

Cancer is expensive
Clete now has medical coverage to help ease the financial burden of some of the medical expenses. And for anyone who has ever been through something like this, you know cancer is incredibly expensive. The one thing we don't want is for Clete to worry about how his expenses will get paid, as he can no longer work to contribute to his care. Our immediate and extended family have been doing everything in their power to help, but we know we need more help.  

This money will go towards medical related costs and living expenses, as they are now a one income family. Funds will be needed for office and chemo copays, transportation, lodging, and medical equipment that may be needed.

Many people have asked us how they can help, and we can’t think of a better way than this. Even if it’s only $5 and your prayers, know that whatever you can give means a lot to all of us, and especially to Clete. Thank you in advance for your donations, prayers, and well wishes.