Help Support Janel and Chad Hicks Through Surgery and Cancer Treatment

This has been an incredibly difficult year for our family, and we are reaching out for prayers, love, and support as my sister and her husband, Chad, walk through two serious and unexpected medical battles at the same time.

My Sister’s Journey

In March, she discovered a mass on her submandibular gland. After months of testing and even sending samples to the Cleveland Clinic, doctors determined it was likely benign—but with cancer-like cells. Because of the risk that it could eventually develop into an aggressive cancer, she was advised to undergo surgery.

Her neck surgery was scheduled for Thanksgiving week. The tumor sat beneath her facial nerve, which meant removal carried the risk of temporary facial paralysis. Despite the challenges, her surgeon was confident—and God has been faithful every step of the way.

Praise report: Surgery went well! The entire gland was removed, the mass is gone, and although she is experiencing some facial paralysis, doctors expect healing over the next few weeks. We are now praying for clear pathology results and continued recovery.

Through all of this, she has held onto Philippians 4:6—“Do not be anxious about anything…”—and has faced every step with courage, faith, and gratitude.

Chad’s Unexpected Cancer Diagnosis

Just as her surgery was taking place, Chad received news no one ever expects. What was believed to be polyps in his nose turned out to be a rare form of nasal cancer. His surgeon has only seen this type four times in 33 years—and all four had good outcomes. That assurance has given us hope, and we are incredibly grateful it was found early.

The cancer is in the best possible location and has not attached to surrounding tissue—a true miracle in itself. Chad will now be treated at UAB, where specialists will determine the next steps. Surgery to remove the small bone where the cancer originated is likely, and radiation may be needed depending on what they find.

Our family is leaning hard on prayer, trusting God’s timing, and giving thanks for early detection and open doors.

Why We’re Asking for Help

Between major surgeries, travel to specialists, ongoing testing, time off work, and the emotional toll of facing two serious diagnoses at once, the financial strain is overwhelming. Medical bills, treatment costs, travel expenses, and recovery needs are more than they can manage alone.

Your support—whether through giving or sharing—will help lift a burden they simply cannot carry by themselves right now.

How You Can Help

Pray for complete healing, clear pathology reports, successful cancer removal, and no need for radiation. Give, if you are able, to help cover medical bills, travel, and lost income. Share this fundraiser so more people can join in supporting them.

Despite the fear, the waiting, and the unknowns, we are choosing hope. We are trusting God’s hand in every detail, just as Psalm 34:4 reminds us:
“I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears.”

Thank you for being part of our support system. Our family is humbled, grateful, and believing for complete healing for both of them.