Hi everyone,

My name is Susan Rader, and I’m creating this GoFundMe for my older brother, Rick Rader, as he faces an incredibly difficult year ahead.

Rick has been diagnosed with kidney cancer. After extensive testing and a biopsy, doctors confirmed it is Urothelial Cell Carcinoma, which is the more aggressive form of kidney cancer. Because of this diagnosis, his treatment plan changed significantly.

Instead of a single surgery, he is now scheduled to undergo four months of aggressive chemotherapy, with the possibility of extending to six months depending on how his body responds. After chemotherapy, he will face major surgery that includes removal of his kidney, the tubes connecting the kidney to the bladder, and part of his bladder. He will also require a catheter during recovery and extended healing time.

At this time, doctors cannot determine the exact stage of the cancer because this type spreads microscopically. The staging will only be confirmed during surgery once the kidney and surrounding organs can be examined.

In addition to the kidney cancer, Rick also has two thyroid tumors — one about the size of a golf ball and another the size of a pea. Due to their size and shape, further biopsies have been ordered. If the thyroid tumors are cancerous, they will require radiation treatment, potentially at the same time he is receiving chemotherapy.

While doctors are optimistic about treating the cancer, the road ahead will be long and extremely difficult. Chemotherapy will leave him very sick, exhausted, and unable to work consistently for several months. He will lose his hair and endure significant physical and emotional strain as his body fights through treatment.

Rick is staying positive and focused on doing everything he can — eating healthier, staying active when possible, and following his treatment plan — but the financial burden of medical bills, medications, travel, and everyday living expenses during this time is overwhelming. The main issue is traveling, due to location. Rick lives in Superior, NE, which is very far away from treatment. He will be traveling to Omaha Lincoln and Grand Island to see the specialists. (oncologist..ENT.. Surgeon etc.) Chemo is at the local hospital.  I will go out to accompany with surgery and recovery as well. We are looking for funding for travel, food, and board when the time comes.

We are asking for help so he can focus on healing and survival, rather than worrying about how to pay his bills during treatment. Any donation, no matter the amount, will make a meaningful difference. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this page is just as appreciated.

Thank you for your kindness, support, prayers, and love during this incredibly hard time. We will continue to provide updates as treatment progresses.

If you’re able to donate or share, it would mean the world to our family. Thank you for the love and support ❤️

With all of my love and regards,

Susan