Nelson Espe's Medical Relief Fund

On 5/2/18 Nelson entered an ER having symptoms of internal bleeding (among others) and found out he had only half of the blood volume he was supposed to have and was bleeding internally. This finding led to an ambulance ride to a larger hospital for further testing, revealing his diagnosis of colon cancer. The surgeon had to repeat himself several times before Nelson or his wife Cait would believe this shocking news. They had a scare a while back with his appendix that was treated with antibiotics, and he already knew he has a family history of Lynch Syndrome, which increases the risk of colon cancer by 80%. But they never truly imagined they would hear the words “you have cancer”, at the young age of 31.

A few days after diagnosis, Nelson had surgery to remove the cancer, which revealed a 12cm tumor obstructing his colon. The surgeons removed his ascending colon tract, appendix (which was inflamed to double its size), and 2 feet of small intestine that was fused to the colon and tumor. They were able to reattach his bowels, so he did not need a colostomy bag! Unfortunately, 5 of his lymph nodes showed metastasis, giving him an official diagnosis of stage 3+ colon cancer. Nelson went from a simple laparoscopic surgery to having to be opened, leaving an incision a foot long down his abdomen. His recovery is going well as he gains more strength daily, to prepare him for his next step, chemotherapy. This next phase of treatment should start in 4-6 weeks, last at least 6 months, and is going to be very aggressive.

The Espe family will bear significant financial burden, from the initial ambulance ride through his big surgery, and throughout the duration of chemo. The coverage they have is not enough, and outside their network provider, they are on their own. If we can relieve at least ONE stress of theirs and let Nelson and Cait focus on fighting cancer and taking care of their daughter, then please help us do so! They have already received their first bill, and we know they will pile up quick. THANK YOU so much for supporting these wonderful people!! They have been shown so much love and support, and they feel so blessed by their friends, family and coworkers. It’s certainly not expected to receive so much help from their loved ones, and again we thank you from the bottom of our hearts!