Kicking cancer's ass for Andrew

After having trouble swallowing food and becoming constantly fatigued after daily physical activity, Drew paid a visit to a local urgent care. We believed that this was just a nasty flu that has been sweeping across the country. They did blood work to run some tests and we were awaiting the results when a nurse told us to cross the street and rush into the ER at Dominican St. Rose.

We were told everything under the sun after the results of an initial MRI. Multiple concerns were presented with every diagnosis more frightening than the last. After two weeks in and out of the hospital, and many scary times it was determined that the diagnosis is actually Esophageal Cancer.

As you all know, the diagnosis was shocking especially because Drew is a vegetarian and leads a very healthy lifestyle. He is now in the beginning of his fight in which we will be facing biopsies, radiation, and chemotherapy. Treatment will begin in the next few days and we hope the surgery will be a final step for him to make a full recovery.

However, this type of treatment can take up to 6 months. He will be forced to go on disability, unable to work during these trying times. Things will be very complicated going forward, as many steps are necessary to keep his food and space sterile to help with his weakened immune system. Even with the insurance he and his wife Ivy managed to get, the out of pocket costs are already spiraling too high for their current way of life.

Being newly married their plans all revolved around building a happy future and family. This new path to that ultimate dream is going to require all hands on deck!

Drew and Ivy are a part of many wonderful communities here in Las Vegas! The Brazilian community has embraced them, the TV/Film Production and The Ultimate Fighter family have relied on and love him. That is why we are humbly asking for help to keep his health insurance current, and his medical bills and other expenses that are stacking exponentially in check. It will take a lot of LUCK and LOVE to help Drew through this battle, but we are off to a good start! No amount is too small and we will forever be thankful for any and all help that is received!