My name is William Gilson. I was diagnosed with a rare inoperable brain tumor called diffuse astrocytoma gliomatosis cerebri, which is malignant and eventually terminal. Due to the current grade and cell mutation MD Anderson in Houston has advised that 6 weeks of proton radiation followed by a year of chemo could potentially provide 7 - 12 year life expectancy.  I have been approved for disability but there is a 6 month waiting period (October) before receiving benefits. I do not have the financial means for bridging the gap till disability benefits start, health insurance under cobra, or the logistical cost to receive the ideal treatments needed to give me the best chance at living longer. Treatments at MD Anderson will require an extended stay in TX.

I’ve been a paramedic for 30 years in which I served multiple communities while working with public, government, and private agencies including the ARMY national guard, New Orleans EMS during hurricane Katrina and offshore during the BP oil spill. I have dedicated my life to serving others. I have been married for 18 years to my sweet wife.  I have been blessed with a 7 year old daughter that I wish more than anything to watch grow up and continue to provide for in whatever capacity I can manage. It is my fervent prayer and hope others can help me during my journey to battle brain cancer.