Help Andrew Carlson's Family Through His Brain Cancer Fight

At 50 years old, my brother-in-law, Andrew Carlson, is facing a long battle against brain cancer. Due to his condition and ongoing treatment, Andy has been unable to work and the family could use assistance meeting the both the monthly household expenses and expected medical bills.

On August 3rd, 2024, what was thought to be a severe sinus infection was revealed to be a brain tumor at the base of his skull. Andy was evaluated at UW Madison, where an examination and biopsy determined that he was suffering from invasive squamous cell carcinoma, a form of brain cancer.

The tumor has affected his vision, smell, taste, mobility, and speech. Due to the location of the tumor, involving the brain stem, carotid artery, and cranial nerves, his medical team advised against surgery and recommended a treatment plan of chemotherapy and daily doses of radiation, in an effort to shrink it so that it can be safely operated on.

This phase is expected to cover the next several months.

Andy is a son, father, brother, cousin, husband and Bengals fan. He started his own delivery business in Oregon, Illinois, both his boyhood hometown and current home to his family, which includes wife, Elaine, sons Braylond and Axel, and daughter, Kinley. All three children have active roles in the Oregon School District 220. Braylond, the eldest, plays basketball, and Kinley is on the volleyball team.

Elaine works as a hairdresser in both Rockford and Oregon, and is a dedicated wife and mother, managing the household, various school-related activities for the kids, and helping to care for our own aging mom.

Andy's diagnosis came as a shock to us all. As the primary provider for his family, they now suddenly face economic hardship and the impending costs of treatment.

He remains positive and is focused on staying strong for his family, but the situation is serious and they are in need of support.

Anything you could contribute would be both a tremendous help and deeply appreciated. Any funds raised would go toward maintaining the household, medical treatment expenses, and Andy's continued care as they face uncertainty ahead.