Help: Big Joe has cancer, expecting a son

Friends,

That's Ben, Big Joe, and Nelson.

Many of you know Big Joe and Nelson joined my family about 11 years ago. I had a big house with an empty attic family room, and we were able to open our doors when we saw need. (For a few years it felt like half the North Shore Rugby team lived in my house, and it was wild and wonderful! )

Big Joe is family, one of my own. Ben, Charlie, Nelson, and Big Joe spent their formative teenage years together. A band of brothers is what we have wrought. Joe has given us so much more than I can describe, and now I find he is leading us in new direction.

Joe has been diagnosed with lung cancer. In two short weeks, it has moved to the second lung with gusto.

Joe is also about to greet his son, due in mid-February.

Joe needs money and prayers.

Here's what we're funding: Joe can no longer work, and Sarah is close to maternity leave with reduced pay. In short, they need gas money. They need to pay their cell phone bills. They need a weekend away for them together before baby boy arrives. As the next few months unfold, there will be many, many challenges.

Joe does not have much support outside us, his family of choice. Thus I am turning to you all, asking for support for our family.

I'll keep you all updated on Facebook as we move through the next few weeks of diagnostic testing. Radiation treatment has already started. We're working on making a good birth plan. It's a lot to take in.

Love you all- jana