Help the Spring Family Support Their Dad in the Fight of His Life

We’re reaching out on behalf of the Spring family to ask for your help in supporting their beloved father, Jr., who is battling a rare and aggressive form of bile duct cancer called cholangiocarcinoma. This disease has progressed rapidly and has left him unable to work, requiring 24/7 care — physically, emotionally, and financially overwhelming the family.

Back in February, Jr. came down with COVID and Influenza A. He never fully recovered. By April, a routine CT scan revealed areas of concern, and by June, he was officially diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma carrying the FGFR2 gene mutation. This diagnosis changed everything.

Jr.’s care team identified a targeted therapy — Lytgobi, a drug specifically designed to treat his mutation. Unfortunately, getting access to this life-extending treatment wasn’t easy. Despite the support of his doctors and second and third opinions at Loyola Medical Center, his insurance denied coverage twice. The pharmaceutical assistance program also initially denied support, leaving the family to fight — relentlessly.

Throughout this uphill battle, Jr.’s health has declined. Chemo weakened his immune system. He’s experienced serious infections, side effects, hospital stays, and most recently, he was diagnosed with esophageal dysmotility, making it hard for him to even swallow. On July 31st, he was rushed to the hospital again — diagnosed with acute metabolic encephalopathy, a result of his body becoming overwhelmed with toxins.

Thanks to his daughter Samantha’s tireless advocacy — sending letters, photos, and updates to humanize his case — and the incredible support of his new oncologist, the Lytgobi treatment was finally approved. It gives the family hope — not for a cure, but for more time. More time to be together, to share memories, and to ease the suffering.

But time is precious, and resources are running thin.

Jr. hasn’t been able to work for months. Disability benefits have yet to come through. His four children are taking turns caring for him full time, sacrificing income and time with their own families to make sure he’s never alone. Medical bills, medications, hospital stays, equipment, and everyday expenses are piling up.

The Spring family is no stranger to loss. In 2022, they lost their beloved wife and mother unexpectedly to COVID. Now they’re in another fight — one they never could’ve prepared for — and they need our help.

We are asking for donations of any amount to help relieve some of the financial pressure on this loving, hardworking family. Your support will help cover:

• Medical bills and prescriptions

• In-home care and support equipment

• Daily living expenses

• Travel costs for medical appointments

• And, if needed, hospice or end-of-life care

More than anything, this is about giving Jr. comfort, dignity, and as much quality time as possible with the ones who love him most — his four children, 15 grandchildren, and the many friends and family who hold him close in their hearts.

Please consider donating and sharing this fundraiser. Every gesture matters — whether it’s $5, a share, or a prayer.

Thank you for helping the Spring family carry this heavy load. ❤️