UPDATE 12/1/2023

After a grueling 21 hour surgery, the doctors believe they were able to remove most of the tumor and cancerous tissue. The initial evaluation of the cancer was conservative as they found the cancer had spread farther than originally anticipated. This is a very aggressive form of disease and the cancer had grown since the tests just a few weeks ago.

Ben is struggling with pain and loss of vision in his left eye. He will still need to endure several rounds of radiation and potentially chemotherapy as well. He is currently in the ICU with round-the-clock care being provided by an awesome team of nurses and doctors. Please continue to pray for Ben’s healing and his family as well.

Original post:

Galatians 6:10 ~ "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers."

Ben and his family have served in ministry almost their entire lives. They began their journey in Southern Ohio and served in various leadership roles in California, Louisiana and Central Ohio. Ben is currently an Associate Pastor at Open Door Church and serves as the Principal at Open Door Christian Academy in the Denham Springs, Louisiana area. This family is now going through an unbelievable trial. We have an opportunity to help make this challenge more bearable for them.

On November 1, Ben received devastating news that all of us hope to never hear; he was diagnosed with cancer….specifically, Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma. This is an aggressive form of cancer. So far, it has been found in his left cheek, left cheek bone, sinus/nose, left palate and the roof of his mouth. They are still awaiting the PET Scan to see if it has spread anywhere else.

The fight with insurance has begun. As we all have experienced, the last thing we want to do while fighting cancer is to worry about losing our homes and livelihood! The doctors are preparing Ben and Jenn for extensive surgery to remove the cancer, which will include removing teeth, bone and palate tissue on the left side of his face. Ben will require an extended stay in the ICU for recovery from this first surgery. He will be on a feeding tube and ventilator/tracheotomy. This surgery will leave him unable to eat, talk or to breathe on his own.

As you can imagine, Ben and Jenn haven’t been able to fulfill their duties at work due to their days being filled with doctor visits, testing, and preparation for the first surgery. Subsequent surgeries will be needed for reconstruction and the plan is to use bone from his fibula and leg tissue to reconstruct his face. Between the first surgery and reconstruction, he will be enduring at least 30 rounds of radiation…. every weekday for a minimum of six weeks. At 39 years old, Ben’s livelihood is dependent on his ability to teach, preach and serve as the school Administrator and this illness will have a huge impact on his ability to continue…we are hopeful though and know that God can turn ashes into beauty!

We are sure you can’t even imagine this happening to your family. They have a son, Brayden, in college. Their daughter, Aubrie, is a Junior at the Christian School. Their little girl Addie just started first grade. Those of you that know this family will agree that they have always been authentic in their faith and have served in many capacities across the United States.

We pray that God will make a way for you to help this family with a financial donation, along with being in daily prayer for all of them!!!!