Jim was diagnosed with testicular cancer in early July after a oriechtomy procedure.  On 7/9/19, Jim received the unthinkable news that he has Testicular Cancer and that it has spread to nearby lymph nodes, near his left kidney. The 2 forms of cancer found in the tumor were Seminoma (responds well to chemo/radiation) and Teratoma (does not respond to chemo and requires surgery). After working with a team of specialists at Mayo, they recommended he have 9 weeks of chemo to shrink as much of the lymph nodes as possible so that during the next surgery they would be able to keep the left kidney.  Chemo began in mid-August and ended mid-October.  The follow-up appointment on November 18th confirmed the tumor did not shrink, in fact it grew and now looked to be surrounding the renal artery to his left kidney.  A second surgery was done November 25th, called RPLND that removed the lymph nodes around the kidneys and enlarged tissues.  They also had to remove his left kidney as the enlarged lymph nodes were surrounding the renal artery.  It took 6 hours and is expected to take 8-12 weeks recovery, with the first 4 weeks no lifting or activity other than walks.  Prognosis is really good, 98% cure rate, after 5 years of clean scans. 

As most of you know, Jim quit his 9-5 job to pursue his dream of owning his own BBQ food truck two years ago. He was starting to find a good groove with his business and looking forward to "busy season" with events scheduled throughout the week and almost every weekend over the summer. Unfortunately, the cancer diagnosis put a halt to that as he obviously needs to focus on kicking this disease.

They've been down to one income since July. While the outpouring of support through meal deliveries, kid transportation, yard work, cleaning service, sweatshirt fundraiser, gift cards, etc. have been overwhelmingly appreciated, we can't help but think of the financial burden they're under especially as we approach the holiday season. So after much hesitation from Jim and Danielle, they've agreed to let us start this page in the hopes that we can help relieve some of that stress and put money toward the piling medical bills and help supplement the loss of an income during this difficult time.

As always, we are all very appreciative of the support you've provided thus far for their family. Please continue to keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they approach the next phase in kicking this terrible disease.