Help Ariel and Caleb During Cancer Battle

Our daughter, Ariel, was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 2022. Recently she found out that her cancer markers had jumped significantly and after a recent ultrasound it appears the cancer has spread to several lymph nodes in her neck. Her doctor was concerned with one in particular as it would be extremely difficult to biopsy since it is directly under her carotid and jugular. He referred her to MD Anderson in Houston for more diagnostics and possible treatment. They have her initial appointment scheduled for February 20th.

Ariel’s husband, Caleb, will be traveling with her to Houston. Caleb is a veteran and works in law enforcement. They have two beautiful baby girls under 3, Sloane and Fallon. We will be helping with the girls while Caleb and Ariel are in Houston doing diagnostics and determining a treatment plan. This may include surgery or possibly radiation.

Their family will have several significant financial needs during this time:

1. Boarding their fur kids while they are away.

2. Increased childcare costs. As grandparents, we will try to help as much as possible. However, Stephanie and I work full-time and feel that a part-time nanny or sitter would be ideal. Even upon their return, Ariel will most likely need time to rest and recover while Caleb will be back at work.

3. Travel expenses. We don’t really know what this looks like or how many trips back and forth from Wichita to Houston they will be taking. They will either need to rent a car or put some work into theirs before making the nine-hour drive. There is also the cost of gas, lodging, meals, etc.

Ariel is an incredible mom! It will be emotionally taxing to be separated from her babies while dealing with this troubling health concern. Caleb is an incredibly supportive husband and father, and we are so grateful they have each other. Thank you in advance for your thoughts, prayers, and assistance as they navigate through this challenging time.