Shel Arensen's (Christian Missionary in Kenya) Surgery

I am posting this GoFundMe on behalf of my sister Kym Arensen and brother-in-law, Shel Arensen, who have been missionaries in Kenya for more than 40 years. Their roots are in Washington state.

This need is extremely urgent. Very recently a rare malignant tumor was discovered in Shel's throat by his physician in Kenya who immediately referred him to a team of specialists in London. Initially he "met" with those doctors by ZOOM consultations. They determined that it would be necessary for him to travel right away to London for a second biopsy.

Shel and Kym flew to London two weeks ago for the biopsy and other diagnostic scans. The results shows that the tumor is restricting Shel’s trachea and growing. Without surgical intervention, this will become life-threatening soon. The surgery to remove the tumor and allow air to pass well through the trachea will require removal of his voice box. The surgery is supposed to take about eight hours followed by about four weeks of hospitalization in London.

Now the reason for the GoFundMe request. The medical treatment will be covered by insurance, but Shel and Kym will have to pay for airfare (possibly multiple post-surgery trips from Kenya to London for follow-up), expenses they will incur in London until Shel is allowed to return home, and for Kym's expenses for lodging for the period of time that Shel will be hospitalized.

Their income is only the funds they receive from donors who support their mission, and that certainly won't come close to meeting their need through this challenging journey.

I am asking and praying for funds to help Shel and Kym. Without a voice Shel's preaching and ability to continue ministering to Kenyans will be seriously impacted.

So, my ask for you is to support them if you can through prayer (surgery date is June 10) and any financial support that you can share. Your contributions will not pass through my hands. They will go directly to Shel and Kym through GoFundMe channels.

Again, this is a critical and immediate need. They did not ask me to create this GFM post. It was my idea. Thank you for your consideration and for your prayers. --- Rick Hogan