Our dad, Ray, was diagnosed with stage 4 Squamous Cell Carcinoma in December after experiencing ongoing pain in his mouth which led to the discovery of a tumor that is penetrating his jaw bone. On January 22, he will be undergoing surgery to remove the tumor and reconstruct his jaw. His PET scan showed the cancer has metastasized to the lymph nodes on the left side of his neck so the surgery will include removal of those lymph nodes as well. Fortunately, the scan confirmed the cancer has not spread further at this time. He will remain inpatient for 7-10 days after surgery for recovery. He will also be out of work for a minimum of 6-8 weeks. 45 days following surgery, he will complete 35 sessions of radiation that will hopefully further eliminate any more cancer.

Not only will he remain off work for a couple of months but he has to end his basketball coaching season early. Teaching and coaching are two things he is more than passionate about; in fact, he has left a profound and lasting impact on the youth he has mentored through his years of coaching, teaching and fatherhood. He is one of the most selfless people we know who has gone above and beyond his entire life to make sure everyone's needs have been put before his own.

Our family asks that you keep our dad in your prayers. He is deeply rooted in his faith and that will be one of the biggest contributing factors to getting him through this. We also know that the power of community can really make a significant difference during challenging times like these.

All money donated through the GoFundMe account will go directly to Ray & Kelly to assist them with medical bills, outpatient treatment, travel & time off work. If you wish to donate by other means (check, gas cards, grocery cards, etc.), please contact me (Brooke) @ 920-418-fourthreezerofive to coordinate. There is also a donation fund set up through Farmers & Merchants Bank in Berlin under the Ray Mlada Benefit. Donations can be made in person or mailed to Farmers and Merchants Bank PO Box 270 Berlin, WI 54923 with the memo of: Ray Mlada Benefit.

I will post updates here on dad's surgery and recovery! Thank you for your prayers & support!!!