The Rock of our Family

Two weeks ago our family was faced with an unexpected life changing events. We took the Rock of our family to the emergency room for what we thought was just constipation. After many test the doctor came back in telling us it was the big C. Their exact words. No easing into it just walked in an blurted it out. Then another and another. Telling us he needed an emergency surgery and they were over 90% sure it was Cancer. That was the start of our on going battle. He was transferred to Mayo Clinic and rushed in to surgery. We had no time to process any of the information. Let alone get a hold of family and friends. The only good note we had to hold onto was the surgeon told us the mass was not connected to anything but his larger intestine(colon). Not knowing what the future was going hold. We were doing everything to try and stay positive. That was extremely hard. We have no insurance to cover anything. The main concern was his health. Whatever it takes. No one should have to go through this but many do. As we waited for any news from the surgeon many things need to be handled, like calling family and our kids. Which had no clue really of what was going on. That was the toughest part. They say "stay positive and strong for the kids and him". That is harder then you think. The surgeon came in 6hrs later to inform us that everything went well as could be and he was doing good. She also had some amazing news for us. She didn't think it was cancer anymore. Instead he has diverticulitis disease. She also said until all the tests come back there was still a small chance he could have cancer. So we were not out of the woods yet.

Great news was he was doing well as can be expected after a cancer surgery. His abdomen was cut completely open. Only 33 staples OUCH. We were informed that they were unable to complete this surgery due to some issues that they found. So after he heals from this surgery. They are going to be doing yet another major surgery to complete this last one. Which will take another 6-8weeks of healing. Amongst many follow-up visits and therapy. He did recieve the all clear from cancer. This was a huge relief.

We struggle like a lot of people out there to afford medical insurance. Unfortunately we have gone without. Paying for everything out of pocket was Surprisingly cheaper even with kids in sports. Which they have had many injuries over the years. But, with all this at once on top of normal life issues of storm damage, cars repairs and teenage driver ect. Now we have huge medical bills coming and still many more to come. Our stress level has been very high. We tried once again to get insurance help through our state. Only to be told "Unfortunately your are like a lot of people. You make to much and yet not enough to cover your works medical. You fall in what we call the grey zone". So now we are down to one income to our household and bills that we are guessing our going to be more than what our house is worth. So we're are reaching out to everyone who can and would be willing to help us. As medical bills are building higher everyday. Not to include dropping down to a single income to pay for our normal bills. We have always been a family to help others when we could. We have taught our children the same. Unfortunately tables have turn for us and we are in need of help. Please help if you are able. We really appreciate everything!

Thank you!