Help Papa Barry Heal – Support the Spencers During Life-Saving Surgery

If you’ve ever met Barry Spencer — or as many of us lovingly call him, “Papa Barry” — you know he’s the kind of man who shows up. For his family. For his neighbors. For his daughter’s friends. For anyone who needs a hand or a kind word.

Now, Barry needs us to show up for him.

Why We're Asking for Help

Last year, Barry faced a terrifying diagnosis: a rapidly growing tumor on his right kidney. Though it was benign, the tumor was damaging, and the kidney had to be removed. With one kidney left, the hope was for smooth sailing. But now, doctors have discovered another mass — this time on his only remaining kidney.

Barry will undergo a partial nephrectomy to remove the mass on September 15th at the University of Missouri Hospital in Columbia. This is a critical, high-stakes surgery — and recovery will require hospital monitoring and full-time at-home care for at least a week afterward.

His daughter, LeAnne, will be his sole caregiver. She’s stepping up in every way possible, but that means missing two weeks of work, covering travel and lodging for pre-op and surgery dates, and providing 24/7 care during his recovery.

This fundraiser will help with:

Rental cars and travel expenses (2 trips to Columbia, MO)

Lodging for pre-op appointments (Sept 2–3) and surgery (Sept 14–17)

At-home care support during recovery (Sept 17–24)

Lost wages for LeAnne, who will miss 11 days of work

Medical and post-surgical support supplies

Every dollar raised will go directly toward helping Barry get the care he needs and ensuring LeAnne can be by his side without the crushing weight of financial stress.

Who Barry Is to Us

Barry has always been a rock — for his daughter, his family, and so many of us who grew up alongside LeAnne. He’s that warm, dependable presence in the room. The one who calls you "kiddo" and means it with his whole heart. The one who shows up with a truck when you need help moving, who cheers for you at your games, who’s always ready with a bad dad joke and a good life lesson.

This is our chance to give back to the man who’s given so much.

How You Can Help

Donate if you're able. Even $5 makes a difference.

Share this page on social media, in group chats, at work — anywhere.

Leave a note of encouragement for Barry and LeAnne. Every kind word lifts them up.

We know times are hard — but love, community, and support can make all the difference. Let’s rally around this incredible family and help Pappa Barry heal.

Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts.

With love,

Team Spencer ❤️

(Description and kind words written by Lydia Heilman)