#RingtheBellforMatt

On March 17th, our world changed in an instant. While at home watching TV with our children, Matt experienced a grand mal seizure. He was rushed by ambulance to Cooper ER, where within hours we learned that the likely cause was a 7.4 cm tumor found on his CT scan. From that moment forward, it has felt like we’ve been drifting in and out of reality, trying to navigate a path we never imagined we’d be on.

When presented with treatment options, Matt—unsurprisingly—met the challenge head-on with his trademark tenacity, determination, and unrelenting will. But as we’re learning, this journey isn’t linear. There are no clear directions, and the plan can shift in what feels like an instant.

After undergoing a craniotomy to remove the tumor from his right frontal lobe, Matt spent the following four weeks in recovery, working with physical therapy, occupational therapy, and a team of incredible doctors to prepare for what comes next.

On April 22nd, following the results of molecular testing, Matt was officially diagnosed with a Grade 3 Astrocytoma—a form of brain cancer that even despite a successful surgery would warrant further treatment.

He's now facing a rigorous six-week course of 33 proton radiation treatments alongside daily chemotherapy, followed by a 12-month maintenance chemotherapy regimen.

As his wife, watching him face this battle with such courage is both heartbreaking and inspiring. We’re taking things one day at a time. In Matt’s mantra voice- One foot in front of the other.

We don’t know how we got here—but I do know why we’re still standing: because of the incredible outpouring of love and support from our families, friends, neighbors, and community near and far. It’s been overwhelming in the best way possible. Neither of us will ever have the words to fully express how grateful we are (and that’s saying something—because we both talk a lot!).

On behalf of Matt, our boys—Austin and Wyatt—and myself: thank you. Thank you for keeping us afloat. Matt is gearing up to face the most important challenge of his life. And just like every other challenge he's taken on—we know he’s going to crush this one, too.

In June, we're joining the 100-mile challenge presented to us by a generous and kindhearted friend in town, Geoff Nagle - he's generously offered to share his Cancer Ass Kicking determination to support Matt and our family. Thank you, Geoff- #GiddyUp