My name is Katy Parsons, and in May my husband Chris was diagnosed with colon cancer. He is the 9th family member in one genetic line to get it - the 5th to get it under age 50. He has tested positive for Lynch Syndrome, affecting the MSH2 gene, which is a hereditary gene malfunction.

Because he is positive for Lynch, what would normally be a less invasive surgery has now turned into the removal of his entire colon, to prevent future cancer outbreaks - at least in that organ. The first surgery is scheduled for 7/30 in Evansville, with following treatment TBD after proper biopsies of his colon and lymph nodes are performed. He is also working with a genetic counselor to create a plan of action to manage Lynch. Because it is hereditary, Zappa, our soon-to-be 3 year old daughter, will also need to be tested. With Lynch Syndrome, Chris will need annual MRIs to scan for cancers in his stomach, kidneys, lymph nodes, and brain. If Zappa tests positive she will have to have annual MRIs, as well as colonoscopies, starting at age 20.

The recovery time and limitations that will be put on his physical activity will hinder him unable to work or go on any fall tours. I will only be able to work part-time, as he will also not be able to physically take care of Zappa by himself.

With the entertainment industry just getting back to work, and his tours canceled all last year due to the pandemic, we were looking forward to getting back to “normal” this fall, financially; however this is a new curveball. Chris has been an audio engineer in the Nashville area for 18 years, and he has been itching to get back to work, as many of our industry friends have as well. I also work in entertainment production, so it will be a delicate dance to balance any traveling gigs and last minute scheduling while caring for a toddler on my own, and him recovering at home.

The money we raise will go towards medications and other medical expenses related to Chris’ treatment and monthly bills (rent/utilities), to supplement what I can bring in with a limited work availability. It will also give a financial buffer to pay for Zappa’s care, so that as Chris’ recovery progresses, I can start to accept gigs out of town and not be limited to local calls in Southern Indiana.

If all goes well, he should be good as new by the holidays - or at the very least, physically able to take care of Zappa at home while I resume a full-time work schedule. 

We feel fortunate to be back in my hometown and around family who can aid in caring for Zappa! We didn’t know what a blessing it would be when we relocated here last fall due to the pandemic erasing our work opportunities - but now we see there was a plan all along!! We appreciate all the help we can get through this time - from those who have been able to help with our daughter to those who are praying and giving emotional support to our whole family.