We are so grateful for the support received through Kyle’s previous GoFundMe. Following an updated cancer diagnosis and a change in Kyle’s treatment plan, we are launching this new fundraiser to reflect Kyle and his family’s current and ongoing needs.
Beginning in July 2024, Kyle was admitted to the University of Minnesota-Fairview after going to the ER with a persistent fever, chest pain, and a cough that would not go away. He was found to have a large infection in his esophagus that ultimately perforated his lung. The severity of that infection led to extensive hospitalization and recovery, resulting in Kyle being laid off from work for eight months.
In November 2025, following an ER visit at Mayo in Rochester, Kyle was admitted so doctors could attempt to repair his esophagus after discovering the holes had reopened. Doctors placed stents in hopes of patching and stabilizing the damage. During this time, it was discovered that the lung previously damaged by infection was beyond repair and would need to be removed.
Kyle underwent major surgery at Mayo Clinic, where the upper lobe of one of his lungs was removed. During that procedure, doctors discovered a large mass in his esophagus. After several weeks and review by multiple pathologists, we received news nobody wants to receive: Kyle has been diagnosed with Squamous Cell Carcinoma.
Since November, Kyle has endured multiple hospital stays — including one lasting 16 days. He has faced pneumonia, influenza, continued infections, stent complications, and a chest drainage tube becoming displaced. Each setback has required additional procedures, more time in the hospital, and more physical and emotional strength than we ever imagined one person could carry.
Right now, Kyle’s focus is healing from these major surgeries so he can begin radiation treatment. If the stents currently in place do not successfully allow his esophagus to heal, he will face another life-altering surgery to remove his entire esophagus and reroute his stomach.
As we look ahead, we are hoping to raise an additional $20,000 to help cover ongoing living expenses — especially the cost of childcare for Kyle’s three young children, both now and throughout the upcoming summer. Having dependable childcare allows Kyle the space to continue healing and preparing for the cancer treatments and possible surgeries ahead. It also allows Allison to be present during appointments and hospital stays without the constant worry of how to manage care for Collin, Claire, and Brynley.
We never imagined we would still be walking this road, and certainly not with a cancer diagnosis added to the journey. But your support has reminded us that we are not walking it alone. Every donation, every share, every prayer has made a tangible difference in our ability to focus on Kyle’s health and our family’s stability.
To stay connected and follow Kyle’s journey more closely, we’ll be sharing regular updates on CaringBridge here: Kyle's CaringBridge
From the bottom of our hearts — thank you for standing with us. Your generosity and compassion continue to give us strength for the road ahead.
With heartfelt thanks,
The Howks