Support Aaron’s “Lumpy” Biggest Challenge

Help Support Aaron “Lumpy” – Firefighter, Nurse, DMAT Member, Husband & Dad – Through Life-Changing Surgery

After 30 years of running into danger as a firefighter, nearly two decades serving on the Disaster Medical Assistance Team (DMAT), and recently becoming a nurse, Aaron—known to most as Lumpy—now finds himself facing a battle he never expected.

Several months ago, while being treated for chronic back pain (a result of a long, physical career of service), doctors discovered something life-altering: a rare tumor inside his spinal cord called an ependymoma. Only about 200 cases are reported each year in the U.S. It’s incredibly rare—and incredibly serious.

Aaron’s tumor is located at C3, just below the brain. The only treatment is a high-risk surgery to remove it. There's a 1 in 4 chance this operation could result in him becoming a ventilator-dependent quadriplegic. Even in the best-case scenario, there will be neurological side effects—no one knows exactly how severe they’ll be until after surgery.

True to who he is, Aaron’s kept his sense of humor—calling the tumor an “empanada” or an “Oompa Loompa” to lighten the mood—but make no mistake, this is a major moment for him and his family.

He’ll be undergoing surgery very soon, followed by ICU care, hospital recovery, and extensive rehabilitation. He’ll be out of work for some time, and his wife Katie will be by his side, caring for him while also holding everything together at home.

Many have asked how they can support Aaron and his family during this time.

In response, we’ve created this page as a place to stay updated, offer encouragement, and—if you feel moved to—lend a hand.

Aaron has spent his life serving others—through fires, disasters, and crises. He’s shown up time and again for his community. Now it’s our turn to show up for him.

Please donate if you can, share this page, and most importantly—keep Lumpy, Katie, and the whole family in your thoughts and prayers. We’ll continue to post updates as Aaron begins this journey.

Thank you so much for your love and support.