Support Amber’s Healing Journey

Dear friends, family, and kind-hearted supporters,

We’re reaching out on behalf of our dear friends, Amber and Johnny, who are navigating a devastating and unexpected medical crisis.

Just weeks ago, Amber was rushed into emergency surgery in Ghana, where doctors discovered a large malignant tumor in her colon. Since then, she has endured multiple surgeries, faced intense pain, and been medically evacuated to Berlin, Germany for specialized care. What was supposed to be an exciting new chapter abroad for their family has turned into a prolonged medical emergency, filled with uncertainty and immense emotional and financial strain.

While their long-term life plans have been put on hold and are being reviewed and revised daily, they do have a (vague) short-term plan. In early August, Johnny and the kids will be moving to Zambia to begin the school year, while Amber will remain in Berlin to continue her treatment. This has been an agonizing decision—they never imagined separating their family during such a critical time. But they believe it’s the best path forward for now. The next year is crucial to Amber’s long-term health and recovery.

A key part of Amber’s healing is staying emotionally and psychologically strong. That means being surrounded—virtually or in person—by the love of those closest to her. Johnny, Malia, and Noah will travel to Berlin whenever possible, and they would like to support visits from friends and extended family as well. But this comes with significant costs: flights, lodging, time off work, and the unpredictable financial toll of long-term medical care abroad.

That’s why we’ve created this GoFundMe page. Funds raised will go directly toward:

We know many people face financial limitations right now, and please don’t feel obligated to give. Your emotional support is deeply appreciated and means just as much. But if you are in a position to contribute, every donation helps, and every gesture brings Amber and her family one step closer to healing.

Johnny and Amber have wrestled with the decision to open this fundraiser, and we thank you for understanding the difficult balance between pride, privacy, and the practical needs of this moment. Feel free to share this page with others who may wish to help.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for the continued support. Your kindness and love is helping them weather the storm.

With gratitude,

Luke & Kim LaBaw

(on behalf of Amber, Johnny, Malia & Noah)