Donate to Hunter's Fight Against Cancer

My name is Hunter and this year has been a whirl wind for my wife, Megan, and I. Earlier this year we found out the we were expecting again, transforming us from one and done to two under two. Although, extremely stressed and anxious for what was about to come, we planned and prepared for time ahead. As if that was not enough, at regular dentist appointment in February, my dentist noticed a mass growing on the rear of my tongue. With concern, he referred me to an oral surgeon for further examination. The oral surgeon removed the mass and sent it off to The University of North Carolina for Pathology. After much deliberation between UNC and my oral surgeon, if was determined that at the age of 26 I was diagnosed with low grade Mucoepedermoid Carcinoma. I was informed that this was a type of salvatory cancer that although is rarely found on the tongue, should not spread and surgery to ensure clear margins should be the end of treatment. The day before my 27th birthday, I underwent surgery to remove part of my tongue, cheek, and throat. The week to come was filled with round the clock pain killers, sleepless nights, hour plus long meals just to try and eat and swallow soup, extreme ear pain, and waking up to my mouth pooling with blood. Even though I was enduring all this, it was ok because I knew it was all over. Or so I thought. Two weeks later I went to my follow up appointment with my ENT fully expecting it to be in and out no big deal. Unexpectedly, my Dr. sat me down and explained that after further pathology studies of the newly removed tissues, I did indeed have the more aggressive high grade form of the disease. He also informed me that the cancer had started to impact my nervous system, and that I would need to see radiation oncology to go over the next steps in the treatment plan and begin radiation therapy. The story never seems to end. During the pre radiation work up scans, it was found the cancer had progressed into my lymph nodes. This news now upgraded my diagnosis to stage 4 and had left me with the decision of either going back for more surgery, or undergoing chemo along with radiation. After weighing my options, I have to decided to be as aggressive as possible in my fight and proceed with chemo and radiation simultaneously. I never thought I would be diagnosed with cancer. Certainly not before I’m 30 with a 15 month old son and another on the way. Things are already tight for a soon to be family of four on one income. As treatment bills have become to come in, our ability to stretch a dollar is being tested. Also, with the extreme cost of childcare, we would love to have the option for Megan to being a stay at home mom.  My family and I are deeply appreciative that you have taken the time to read our story and well be forever grateful for those that find it in their hearts to help support us as we continue on this journey.