A Husband, A Father, A Fighter: Help Us Through This Battle

My husband and I have been together for 27 years, and earlier this year, in February 2024, he was diagnosed with stage 4a squamous cell carcinoma. A spot was found on his tongue, and on April 2nd, he underwent surgery—a partial glossectomy—where they removed 20% of his tongue. During the surgery, the doctors also had to remove 24 lymph nodes, reaching all the way to the base of his throat.

We were reassured many times that this type of cancer was 90% treatable. Following surgery, he endured 7 weeks of chemotherapy and 34 rounds of radiation. After treatment, we waited the required 3 months for his PET scan, only to receive devastating news: the cancer had spread throughout his body. Multiple masses were found in his lungs, liver, ribs, and spine.

Just yesterday, he underwent a biopsy in his lung but doctors told us further radiation is not an option as it would be too dangerous. Without treatment, they estimate he has only 6 months to a year to live. With treatment, he may have 1 to 2 years.

He has now started immunotherapy with Keytruda, a drug that has the potential to kill cancer cells—but only if it works. If Keytruda is unsuccessful, we will need to explore further chemotherapy or clinical trials.

The challenge we’re facing is financial. Keytruda is incredibly expensive: $6,098 for a supply of just 4 milliliters, with infusions required every 6 weeks. The total treatment cost is $23,138.32. We are working to meet our out-of-pocket maximum, which is $5,000 for the year, so insurance can cover the rest. However, the bills have been overwhelming.

I am disabled, and we have 4 adult children who are doing what they can, but we truly need help. Any donation, no matter how small, would make a world of difference for my husband’s fight against this terrible disease.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for taking the time to read this and for any support you can provide. Your kindness and generosity mean everything to us during this difficult time.