Ken's Battle: Urgent Aid for Inoperable Brain Mass Relief

Hi, my name is Ken and I’m shaking even writing this from the fear of asking anyone for money. However, with the encouragement of friends, I’ve decided to try this.

My whole life I’ve had ischemic strokes (blood pressure drops and brain does not get enough blood or oxygen), which take months from which to recover. I’ve also always struggled with chronic fatigue. However, in 2022, after having my son, my health began to decline. I was so weak I felt like there were weights holding me down. When I would stand up, I would faint. I went through 2 surgeries all while still trying to be the best stay-at-home parent to my young baby.

The strokes started happening more often, and the fatigue became even more intense. I would lose feeling and control over my legs and jaw—unable to walk or speak. I went through about a dozen specialists with no real answers other than extremely low blood pressure. Until one doctor finally ordered an MRI. They found a mass on my thalamus in the region that manages blood pressure, motor function, and nervous system regulation. They also found that I have fiber neuropathy, which means that the nerves in my extremities (possibly further) have begun to deteriorate and cause pain, among other things.

I have a long list of tests coming up; however, the mass in my brain is in an inoperable place. The two current differentials are either dead and dying brain cells (MS, dementia, Huntington's, Parkinson's) or a tumor. If it is a tumor, it will be inoperable, and I will require chemo in hopes of reducing the mass.

I’m scheduled to see if the masses have spread to my spine and should have results right before Christmas.

Regardless of the diagnosis, I will be receiving a prognosis as well, given that this is a terminal and life-threatening finding.

All I can think about is my son and how he could possibly have to grow up either without me or with a version of me at my absolute worst—slowly watching me deteriorate. Neither of these options are great. And that’s why I’m coming to you.

We are currently unable to even pay for necessities. Rent, food, car, gas, childcare—we’re in the red by thousands each month, unable to keep up due to my inability to work or apply for disability since I don’t have a formal diagnosis yet.

Any financial help would be greatly appreciated so that we can relieve some stress in feeding, clothing, and keeping a roof over our son who deserves to experience NONE of this.

much of this will be used for basic necessities while I am unable to work. As well as doctor visits, travel, testing, and operations.

I know this is all so bleak and a total downer, and even I’m regretting putting all of this out into the world. We just need one less thing to worry about, I guess. And I hate asking for money from people who are likely also struggling in this economy. So if money is not possible for you, please, PLEASE, do not feel any guilt or obligation. Well wishes, opportunities to sell some of my merchandise, and hot meals go SO far as well.

You are all so important and special for even reading all of this. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Even just for being a witness to my life and my vulnerability.

Much love,

Ken Kennady