Bladder Cancer Battle

We dream of the life we will live when we grow old, the grandkids we will raise, the trips we will take, and the moments we will experience. Most of us assume life-altering events and tragedies will not be our fate. Then one morning, you wake, and life flips from best-laid plans to survival mode in a blink of an eye.

Kelly and Michael Morrison have been married for 21 years. They have two boys, Tyler (16) and Luke (12). In July 2022, Michael (44), who seemed perfectly healthy until then, was suddenly diagnosed with an unusually aggressive form of Bladder Cancer. So far, all local efforts to stop it have not produced the desired results. So the family decided to travel to MD Anderson Cancer Center in Texas, the leading US hospital for this disease. The initial consultations in Houston have offered hope, but the treatment will require 3-4 day visits to Texas twice a month for the next two years. Michael, in pain and between chemo treatments, has not been able to work since diagnosis. He is an Industrial Electrician at Ortec in Pendleton, SC. The family lives a modest lifestyle and has always been financially responsible. Unfortunately, Michael's disability insurance is only partial payment, and they are starting to struggle financially. The additional funds needed to stay in Texas only added to that issue.

It is hard to imagine being in their shoes and making the decisions they face. While worried sick about what the future holds, their plate is full of other thoughts. Can they come up with the funds to keep coming to Texas and get the care Michael needs? How will they pay the bills at home?

Kelly is the most genuine soul who wears her heart on her sleeve. They are terrified and are not used to asking for help. So, I ask on their behalf.

My name is Ala Chappelear; I live in Anderson, SC. I've known Michael and Kelly for almost three decades now. Kelly is my dad's youngest sister. While the extended family and friends have been trying to help, the funds are limited for most. So, I hope many hands can lighten the load. Will you help?