Coopers are too strong

Hi, my name is Stefanie and I'm here to share with you all a bit about my brother Tim's current medical journey. Before I begin with the details, please know that as a family we have always faced any challenge guided by our faith as a foundation. Myself and my siblings have followed our parents lead. We are so grateful they taught us to follow and put our trust in God.

Tim's medical crisis has been a whirlwind these last 8 weeks.

Here's where it began. Tim was experiencing bouts of sharp pain in his neck that would radiate through his left arm. The result was tingling and numbness and eventually loss of use of his left hand up to his wrist. He sought medical attention and the initial outcome was that he had a pinched nerve. A few more test and another visit it was determined his nerve pain was a result of a fractured vertebrae in his neck. More tests, MRI, CAT scan, etc. The cause of the pinched nerve and fracture was due to a lesion / tumor. Early signs indicated that he was dealing with Multiple Myeloma. Later confirmed. Tim's has received incredible care, 2 surgeries to stabilize his spine and minimize permanent damage in his hand not to mention the potential for loss of mobility. From a Friday to Tuesday learning that he had a pinched nerve that turned out to be a neck fracture to cancer and emergency surgery. Tim's life was in the balance yet he has courageously faced each day with unshakable faith.

Tim will never be the same and yet he has never been better.

Tim is moving forward full out and is encouraged by 2 successful neck / spinal surgeries. He is pushing through and is completely inspired by our mother. Rare as it is, our mom also has Multiple Myeloma. We are told that this highly irregular to see a mother and son with this particular cancer. Our mom has been kicking cancers butt since 2005. Our dad defeated colon cancer 6 years prior to that. #Cooperstoostrong

Tim's health challenge has opened up a channel in his faith that has been supremely inspiring to witness. I am warmed to see the out pouring of love and concern you have shown. As his sister I could not be more proud of him. Especially when Tim said " You know what? I'm going into surgery singing No Weapon, instead of counting backwards from 100, Fred Hammond style" No fear, no sadness, singing like a victor.

Truly amazing and he did sing as he stated. We got the feedback from his doctors that they were super impressed. If you know Tim, he is known to have a deep baritone voice that can carry. Soooo, post surgery that, well it's been different. Sounds more like Winnie the Pooh, LOL! ( I kid, but also, it's true)

Only God could give us something like this to laugh about and lighten the mood. It's impossible to be sad when Tim starts speaking with that squeaky voice. It is though, a reminder of how fragile life can be. Every day we can choose to lean into life's sweeter side and let that carry us through tougher times.

Tim does have a challenging road ahead, possibility of another surgery (pray not) radiation, stem cell transplant... You know, all of those big medical ticket items. I want to add in that Tim did immediately lose his income. We are here because Tim does have mounting medical bills and unexpected costs. At this time, he isn't able to work. He has already received many acts of kindness, prayers, phone calls, texts, visits, and love gifts. BIG LOVE and thank you!

Being ill is quite costly. If not, now, then in the upcoming months and over the next year or so, we ask that you consider providing any amount as a donation to assist Tim in his fight with Multiple Myeloma. No gift or act of kindness is considered small. All donations are generous and welcomed. All prayers are appreciated and welcomed. We will update over the upcoming weeks.

We and love you dearly!