Hi, my name is Jonel, and I am raising funds on behalf of my friend Adriene and her husband Tom, who was recently diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer: high-grade B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma with MYC and BCL2 rearrangements.

On July 6, Tom was rushed to the emergency room after his abdomen had suddenly swollen to an alarmingly large size. He and Adriene were especially concerned because of the family history of cancer, as Tom has been caring for his own mother who was going through chemotherapy. After a series of CT scans and fluid drainage from his abdomen, on July 9 they received Tom’s pathology results and the devastating diagnosis.

This aggressive form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma requires intensive treatment and close monitoring due to its high risk of spreading, particularly to the brain. Thankfully, a recent MRI confirmed it has not spread to Tom’s brain. Tom immediately began intrathecal chemotherapy, a specialized treatment that targets cancer cells in the brain and spinal cord. Over the next six months, Tom will continue to receive chemotherapy treatment every 21 days, with each cycle requiring a five-day hospital stay.

As you can imagine, the sudden and extensive medical treatment has placed a significant financial strain on the family. Both Tom and Adriene had to take time off from their jobs at local restaurants to focus on Tom’s health. In addition to regular household expenses – bills, groceries, transportation, etc. – they are excitedly preparing to send their son Duncan off for his freshman year of college in just a few weeks.

We are hoping to raise $10,000-12,000 to help cover the family’s essential living and medical expenses over the next six months as they focus on Tom’s medical care.

Please help to support Tom and Adriene by donating any amount that you can contribute. Also, please share this fundraiser with your family and friends to help reach our goal.

Tom and Adriene are deeply humbled by the love and concern they have received. Thank you for your support and encouragement during this incredibly challenging time.