I am Donna L. Hight, Ph.D., a friend, an ally, a fighter, and the partner too of a cancer survivor, my wife, Jen.

I’m creating this fundraiser for my dear friends Liam and his wife Diana, a childhood friend and classmate—two people I love and admire more than I can put into words. If you know Liam, you know his warmth, his humor, his generosity, and the way he shows up for everyone around him. He is the kind of person who makes the world feel lighter just by being in it. Diana is also a beautiful human being and a talented artist, who has been fortunate to live her dream free-lancing.

Over the past several weeks, Liam, Diana, and their family have been thrust into a medical whirlwind none of us saw coming. What began as a few concerning symptoms quickly escalated into specialist visits, scans, and a growing list of procedures. His PET scan is scheduled for the March 24, and while we wait for more answers, one thing has already become painfully clear: the financial burden is overwhelming.

Even with insurance, the bills have been staggering. So far, more than $25,000 in medical charges have arrived, and his insurance is only applying a fraction of those costs toward his deductible. It’s impossible to know when—or even if—his $10,000 out‑of‑pocket maximum will be met under the plan’s restrictive rules. Every new test, every appointment, every prescription adds to the mounting stress. We will be working over the coming months to secure as much assistance as we can from hospital and government resources, and we all know these systems are designed to compel us to give up before being successful. We will keep fighting until they win!

Liam will be receiving treatment at the Hayworth Cancer Center in High Point, about a 45‑minute drive from home. His wife, Diana, and his family will be caring for him, driving him to oncology and radiation appointments, managing medications, and supporting him through everything that lies ahead. That means cutting back significantly on work hours for both, which will reduce their household income at the exact moment their expenses are rising—gas, medications, ready‑made meals, and all the small but constant costs that come with caregiving.

This fundraiser is meant to help cover:

- The $25,000 in medical bills already incurred

- Liam’s future out‑of‑pocket medical expenses

- Travel costs for treatment

- Household expenses during treatment, as income decreases

- Unexpected needs, from medications to basic daily support

We’ve set a goal of $75,000, which would give Liam and Diana the breathing room they desperately need, on what we know will be a long journey to recovered health and wellness. Reaching this goal would ease the crushing financial pressure and allow them to focus on what truly matters: Liam’s health, comfort, and healing.

If we are fortunate enough to exceed this amount, it will help them prepare for the possibility of further income loss as treatment progresses. Cancer treatment takes time, and we won't know exactly how long until further down the road.

Liam and Diana are two of the strongest, kindest people I know. They have spent their lives lifting others up. Now it’s our turn to lift him. Every donation—no matter the size—makes a meaningful difference. Sharing this page helps just as much. And every message of support reminds Liam and Diana that they are not facing this alone and that they are loved.

Thank you for standing with them. Thank you for loving them. Thank you for helping carry this weight during one of the hardest moments of their lives.