My name is Andrew McCalla, I am a 29 year old appendiceal cancer survivor.

In December 2025, my life changed overnight.

I was rushed to the hospital with severe abdominal pain and doctors believed my appendix had ruptured. I was taken into emergency surgery to prevent sepsis. What was expected to be a simple laparoscopic appendectomy quickly turned into something far more serious.

During surgery, doctors discovered extensive infection and abnormal cells. Instead of a routine procedure, they had to perform a major open surgery called an ileocecectomy removing part of my intestine to stop the spread of infection.

I spent a week in the hospital recovering with a drain in my abdomen, a catheter, and strong IV antibiotics. It was an incredibly difficult recovery, but the hardest news came a few days later.

On my fifth day in the hospital, my biopsy results came back and the doctors told me something I never expected to hear: word for word they said sorry to share this news but you have appendiceal cancer and once you are recovered from this surgery we will need to give you a port and start you on chemotherapy.

After being discharged and beginning the recovery process from the ileocecectomy, I sought a second opinion from another oncologist at a different medical facility to make sure I understood all of my options. Based on my diagnosis, he recommended a more aggressive treatment plan to give me the best chance at eliminating the cancer.

About a month after my first surgery, I underwent a second major operation, a right hemicolectomy combined with Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC). This complex procedure involves removing the right side of the colon and then circulating heated chemotherapy directly inside the abdomen to target any remaining cancer cells.

The surgery and treatment took a major toll on my body. Since December, I have lost over 20 pounds and am still recovering from the effects of chemotherapy and the two major abdominal surgeries.

Because of the surgeries, cancer treatment, and recovery time, I have been out of work for months. While I am incredibly grateful to be here and continuing to heal, the financial strain from medical bills and lost income has become overwhelming.

Any donation, no matter the amount, would mean the world to me and help ease the financial burden during this difficult time. If you are unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser with others would be just as appreciated.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for any support you can give as I continue my recovery and move forward after this incredibly challenging chapter of my life.