Ray's fight against Esophageal Cancer

On May 16th our family received some very devasting news that has just completely turned our lives upside down. Our dad was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. Before anyone, including our dad could even comprehend or process this information, they had him rushed into surgery to attempt to remove what they could of the cancer. We waited, we cried, we hoped, and we prayed, but unfortunately, they were unable to remove it all. With the surgery came significant complications requiring 2 more procedures. The last 3 procedures have left our dad with long-term and life-altering effects.

After weeks of surgeries and numerous testing to determine the next best course of action, it has been decided that, yet another surgery will be attempted. During this lengthy and complicated surgery, they will remove 1/2 of our dad's esophagus and 1/3 of his stomach. Recovery will be extensive and will require that our dad stay in ICU for 7-10 days. Fear has its claws in us, but we are doing our best to stay strong and have faith that things will work out in our dad's favor... We leave it in God's hands and pray for success and healing!

Our dad, Ray, is the best father, grandfather, husband, brother, uncle, and friend there is. He LIVES for his family. He’s so proud of us all, loves us so unconditionally, works so hard to provide, and is so present in everything we do. His grandkids absolutely adore him. His life revolves around those kids, and he means the world to THEM. We love him so much!

Our parents would NEVER ask for help which is why we have created this fundraiser on their behalf. Our mom is fighting tooth and nail to keep up with all this and is trying desperately to keep a brave face. The fact of the matter is both our parents are just completely overwhelmed, worried about missing more work and not being able to make ends meet as the medical bills continue to come in. Our dad has provided for and taken care of us our whole lives and now is the time that WE do our best to take care of him.

As we all struggle to deal with the physical and emotional weight of this, we are hopeful that we can try to ease some of their financial burdens as well so that our parents can put more energy and focus into our dad’s healing. We are humbly asking for any help you might be willing or able to offer. Whether that be $5, sharing this fundraiser with others, or most importantly, praying for healing and strength for our father! We appreciate it more than we could ever put into words! By the Grace of God our dad will BEAT this THING!

Thank you so much and God bless.