My Way Ray's Lung Cancer Battle

My name is Donnie Layne, and I'm writing this on behalf of Ray Hughes.  It is so hard to ask for help, but we really need some help.  Ray was diagnosed with non-small cell squamous lung cancer in December following two admissions to Beebe Hospital for pneumonia.  Once diagnosed he was referred to the Tunnell Cancer Center where the surgeon said something like, "That's too difficult for me!"  They wanted to refer Ray to a larger hospital in Delaware, but we both knew Johns Hopkins in Baltimore would be a better option to get a second opinion, since they're ranked as one of the top lung cancer hospitals in the country!

Now, after four day trips to Baltimore, the Johns Hopkins doctors have come up with a plan of attack to kill the terrible tumor, which includes a 6-7 week stay in Baltimore for 5 days a week receiving radiation treatments plus simultaneous full dose chemo treatments. Plus, they want to start immediately.  The alternative to getting treatment at Johns Hopkins, one of the only facilities in the country that solely deals with the specialization of lung cancer, is returning to the Tunnell Cancer Center, where they didn't want to handle the tumor in the first place.

I'm not saying anything bad about Tunnell Cancer Center, but they don't specialize; the doctors deal with all types of cancers and treatments.  Here's the big dilemma...how can we afford to get the best treatment possible for Ray.  Johns Hopkins requires Ray to have a caregiver stay with him the entire time.  I am fully prepared to take leave from work as I would do anything for Ray, but this will be without pay.  And currently Ray is unable to work at any of his jobs.  Basically, we need this money so Ray can get the best care possible to help him conquer this horrible battle.  This is extremely hard for us to ask for help, but if you could spare anything it would be so appreciated!