Isaac's cancer battle

Dear Friends, Family, and Compassionate Supporters,

We are reaching out to you today with heavy hearts to share an update on our beloved eight-year-old son, Isaac. Isaac, a vibrant young student at Whitson Elementary, was initially diagnosed with Wilms Tumor on his left kidney in November 2023. Following surgery, which was complicated by a tumor rupture, he underwent extensive treatment, including radiation and nine months of chemotherapy. We were overjoyed when Isaac achieved clear scans at both three- and six-months post-treatment, allowing us to return to a semblance of normal family life.

However, our hope was recently shattered during his nine-month post-treatment scans. Instead of the anticipated all-clear, we received the devastating news that Isaac's cancer has returned, with numerous tumors now present in both of his lungs.

To confirm the nature of these new tumors, Isaac underwent a lung biopsy. This procedure unfortunately resulted in a pneumothorax, requiring a chest tube and an overnight hospital admission.

The treatment plan for this recurrence is extensive and demanding. At a minimum, Isaac will require surgery to place a port, thirty weeks of chemotherapy (including ten inpatient stays of three days each), significant radiation therapy, and surgeries on both lungs. Medical professionals have indicated that the side effects this time are expected to be more severe and that we should anticipate multiple unplanned hospitalizations and blood transfusions. Potential side effects include severe nausea, vomiting, malnutrition, pain, exhaustion, a compromised immune system, and, tragically, the possibility of infertility and chemotherapy-induced leukemia.

Faced with these daunting medical challenges, we are also confronted with significant financial burdens. Our oncology team is located an hour away, necessitating frequent travel. Both Andrew and I will need to take considerable time away from work, while also managing the care of our other two children.

Therefore, we have initiated this appeal to help offset the substantial costs associated with Isaac's cancer treatment. These expenses include astronomical medical bills, travel costs, and lost income. Any assistance you can provide will be deeply and sincerely appreciated as we embark on this arduous journey to fight for our son's life.

If you are unable to contribute financially, we kindly ask that you consider sharing Isaac's story with your network. Additionally, we urge you to hold your children close, cherish every moment, and shower them with extra love. Our greatest hope is that no other family will ever have to navigate this terrifying and overwhelming reality.

Thank you for your compassion, generosity, and support during this incredibly challenging time.