Earlier this year, in January, Carl was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer known as Goblet Cell Adenocarcinoma, which arises from the appendix and spreads rapidly throughout the colon, small intestine, and abdominal wall. It's immensely difficult to treat due to its rarity and a lack of reliable prognostic outcomes.

In the 8 months that Carl has been receiving treatment, he has already undergone a hemicolectomy, and, for a time, appeared to be in remission. Unfortunately, he's now experiencing severe abdominal pain again – a strong indication that his cancer may have returned.

A specialized Dotatate PET scan is needed to determine where the cancer has spread, since standard PET scans are unable to detect the mucus this cancer produces. Goblet Cell Adenocarcinoma is likewise hard to identify, and can mimic Adenocarcinoma and Neuroendocrine tumors, making recurrence incredibly difficult to diagnose. Insurance is reluctant to pay for the scan, and without this coverage, we have no idea what organs and tissue it could be affecting now.

There's a looming possibility that the extent of his treatment could take him to an out-of-state specialist, too. In which case: Carl will be unable to work. Even if he were to attempt to continue, Carl is 60 years old, and was diagnosed with POTS in 2022 after flatlining, which caused a stroke and several TIAs. These events – along with the effects of anesthesia from surgeries – have led to short-term memory loss, making it difficult for him to continue working in IT. The medical bills are already piling up; half of the household income could soon be nonexistent, and force a sale of the family home he designed from the ground up for my mother.

Through all the hardship, Carl has still chosen to share his case with doctors and researchers in hopes of helping others. His journey is contributing to a better understanding of Goblet Cell Cancer – how it grows, how it spreads, and how it might one day be more effectively treated. His fight isn't just for himself, but for everyone who may face this rare diagnosis in the future.

By supporting Carl, you're not only helping him access critical care, but also impacting the advancement of medical research. Help shape the future of Goblet Cell Cancer treatment. Be part of a miracle.