Help Jessi and Shaina Support Elias

Elias Schaaf, Five years old (almost 6), is battling Cancer for the second time.

What a privilege it is to know Elias and to have a relationship with Elias. There are so many layers to Elias and all the journeys he has endured in this lifetime. We want to honor that story and share it in the best way possible while updating everyone on his fight with cancer for the second time. We created a Facebook page dedicated to just that and encourage you to check it out.

As an aunt to Elias and a sister to Jessi and Shaina (Elias's wonderful moms), I have watched them continue to advocate for Elias. I don't say that lightly, as Elias's first time with cancer was missed after visiting multiple ER departments and multiple Doctor offices. They also have two other kiddos who have their own unique needs. So, to put this simply. They are gracefully and beautifully handling many cumbersome things right now, all at once. While they carry it well, they do need help, even if they hate admitting that.

I am making this Go-Fund in hopes of lessening this load for them.

Elias will stay 4 days inpatient at the hospital, receiving Chemotherapy and Radiation treatments throughout the four days. He will come home for 21 days and repeat this cycle about three times, with his last stay being five days in the hospital with scans to follow in hopes of shrinking the tumor growing on his kidney. More of his story will be on his Facebook page.

Jessi and Shaina are aware of the struggles in life and would only ask that you support them in the ways you feel called to help.

Ways to support besides financially :

Sharing his gofund me.

Praying.

Leaving encouragement for Elias or his family on his Facebook page.

Where will your contribution be going?

Fixing the AC in the van and keeping it in check as they depend on it for hospital trips, appointments, school, emergency, etc.

Gas money to and from Children's Hospital.

Bedding for parents who will be spending time with Elias during his stay.

Shoes that better support Elias's feet. (Elias has severe pain in his feet, honestly throughout his body, but his feet always hurt.)

Food.

Cleaning supplies

Comfort Items for Elias.

Anything that arises that they may not realize they need until Elias has begun treatment/ if he needs to be sent out of state for surgery.

Shaina is a student at UNMC, and Jessi works full-time. Some of the donations could be used to relieve the stress of lost finances due to his condition and treatment plans.

We don't take anything that is done for Elias lightly, even if it's a prayer. From the bottom of all of our hearts, We can't thank you enough for your love and support.

(Money is set up to be transferred to Jessi Merklin’s account. My sister in law, Elias mom.)