Hello, my name is Oliver Huston, and I’m reaching out on behalf of two incredible people — Amanda Rowles and her husband, Ben Salus — who are going through an immensely difficult time. Amanda and Ben are cherished friends of the Huston family. When we were facing our own struggles, they were there for us without hesitation. Now, it’s our turn to support them through this fundraiser.

Ben is a 35-year-old farmer based in Stillwater, MN. He and Amanda have known each other for over 15 years and were recently married in December 2024 — just this past winter. Together, they are raising a beautiful, blended family that includes Ben’s twin boys from a previous relationship, who are 8 years old. Ben is a devoted father who works tirelessly to provide for his family and build a life rooted in love and stability.

In late May, while on a family hiking trip, Ben suddenly experienced severe pain in his abdomen and groin — pain so intense that it brought him to his knees. Amanda, being a nurse and always attentive to those she loves, examined him and noticed a swollen lymph node. She urged him to see a doctor immediately.

After several tests, scans, and lab work, doctors discovered a tumor in Ben’s left testicle. His tumor markers were elevated, and he was scheduled for surgery on June 3rd. Since then, he’s been unable to work due to post-operative restrictions and has only recently been cleared to return. That left more than eight weeks of lost income — at a time when the medical bills and family expenses have only grown.

Amanda has taken on the full weight of caring for their family while also managing the emotional and financial toll of Ben’s illness. She continues working as a nurse while supporting Ben’s recovery and making sure their boys’ lives remain as stable and normal as possible. But despite their strength, the burden is heavy, and they are struggling to keep up with mounting costs.

This is why we are asking for your help.

Your donation, no matter the size, goes directly toward helping this loving, hard-working family stay afloat during one of the hardest seasons of their lives. It supports a father who wants to be there for his sons, a wife who is doing everything she can to hold her family together, and two people who have always shown up for others — now in need of that same kindness in return.

If you can give, please do. And if not, even sharing their story helps more than you know. Thank you for reading, for caring, and for being part of the community that holds them up.