Help Kim's Battle With Cancer

In July of 2021 our lives were turned upside down when my wife, Kim, was diagnosed with STAGE 4 cancer. What started as a small lump and suspected ear infection quickly escalated with numerous tests, scans, and several biopsies. After what seemed like an eternity of unanswered questions, we were given the diagnoses of head and neck cancer. The doctors determined the best way to fight this cancer was to remove as much of the cancer as possible. In October, Kim underwent a 12 hour surgery to remove the cancer. The first part of the surgery included removing several tumors, her lymph nodes, a portion of her tongue, and a portion of her jaw bone. The second part of surgery consisted of transplanting tissue and bone from her leg to reconstruct her tongue and jaw. The days following surgery required Kim to remain in the ICU receiving around the clock care. After several days, she was moved to a regular room within Banner hospital where she continued her recovery for the next two weeks. A tracheotomy and feeding tube were placed to assist with breathing and eating while she recovered from this difficult procedure. Once home, continued care to assist with tube feeding was required. In December the doctors told us Kim must undergo one of the most difficult and aggressive treatment plans to continue her fight. She soon started daily radiation treatments that left both the inside and outside of her throat burnt and covered in blisters. In addition to the daily radiation, Kim completed day long chemo treatment weekly. This left her with nausea and fatigue. Still unable to eat due to the side effects of radiation, Kim has remained dependent on being tube fed. She has been unable to work since October. Due to the extreme recovery I have had to take time away from work to help with her care as much as possible. The continued loss of wages and enormous amount of medical treatment has left us in need of help from our family and friends. This is only the beginning of what will be a long road. Kim will require treatments for the rest of her life. No one is ever prepared to be given the news we have been. We are taking every step possible to prepare for the continuous doctor visits, additional treatment, and continued care.