My name is James, and just a few months ago, my life took an unexpected turn. What started as a sudden vision problem and numbness in my tongue, led me to the ER, where doctors discovered I’d had a micro stroke. While running tests, they found something even more serious—a sizable nodule in my lung. Further scans revealed that I have kidney cancer (Renal Cell Carcinoma) that has aggressively spread to my lungs and brain. I’m 53, with no risk factors, and until this, I felt healthy. It’s been a whirlwind of Gamma Knife procedures (focused radiation to treat the nodules in my brain), immunotherapy infusions every three weeks, and constant monitoring with CTs, MRIs, and lab work. Despite everything, I’m trying hard to stay positive and focused on my treatment plan.

I live in the Chicagoland area, while my parents and siblings are in Detroit where I am originally from. I’m a husband to a wonderful woman, Dannette, and father to two wonderful kids—Jacob, who’s 14, and Sophia, who’s 16 and has special needs. On top of my cancer diagnosis, I’ve been out of work for almost two years due to a double shoulder injury, with one surgery behind me and more ahead. Workman’s compensation provides some support, but it’s not enough to cover the mounting medical bills. My wife is working, but her own medical care has been interrupted due to high balances, and now we’re facing the same risk. Co-pays and uncovered bills are piling up, and if I can’t keep up, there’s a real chance my treatments could be suspended.

I’m reaching out for help to cover the costs of ongoing treatments, scans, and procedures that insurance won’t fully pay for. Your support will help me continue my fight, stay with my family, and focus on healing. Thank you for reading my story and considering a donation—every bit truly makes a difference.

Kind regards,

James Kizy