
Help Chris Otto Access Life-Saving Clinical Trial
Donation protected
For the past year, Chris Otto and Jacqueline Farrington Otto have been fighting the toughest battle of their lives together.
Last spring, Chris was diagnosed with Stage 4 melanoma that had spread to his brain, lungs, and back. Since that devastating day, their world has revolved around countless ER visits, hospital stays, doctor's appointments, and various treatments—all in the desperate search for something effective against this aggressive cancer.
Now, a ray of hope has emerged: Chris' doctors have recommended him for a promising clinical trial at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Texas. This opportunity could be life-changing—but significant obstacles stand in their way.
The Challenge They Face
Their insurance doesn't cover MD Anderson, meaning Chris and Jacqueline must pay out-of-pocket for:
• Clinical trial participation costs
• Approximately 10 trips to Texas in the coming months
• Lodging and meals during treatment visits
These new expenses compound the mountain of medical bills they've already accumulated. Over the last year, Jacqueline dramatically reduced her work be able to devote herself to being Chris' full-time caregiver. Chris hasn't been able to work at all. They have depleted their financial resources by focusing entirely on this fight for survival.
Chris’ heart-and-spirit-based profession centers on photography: capturing and honoring the *essence* of people around the world, especially Indigenous peoples. Now, he and Jacqueline hope you will see more of *their* essence and help bring Chris home, healthy and strong.
What Your Donation Will Support
Every contribution will directly help Chris and Jacqueline with:
• Clinical trial costs at MD Anderson Cancer Center
• Travel expenses for approximately 10 trips to Texas
• Lodging and meals during treatment
• Pet care while they travel
• Ongoing medical bills from previous treatments
• Basic living expenses while neither can work
Their Hope
Before cancer upended their lives, Chris and Jacqueline were building their future together. Now, they're fighting for the chance to return to that life – and to resume the dreams and plans that cancer put on hold.
What they're fighting for is simple: the chance to heal, to regain normalcy —simply playing or hiking with their dog, gardening, savoring each other’s company — and getting back to the life they built together. They've exhausted their savings in this battle, and now they're turning to their community for support.
How You Can Help
1. Donate what you can—every dollar makes a difference (or even air or hotel points)
2. Share this page with your networks
3. Keep Chris and Jacqueline in your thoughts
Even if you can't donate right now, sharing their story would mean the world. They're holding onto hope—and to the dream of returning to their life together.
Thank you for being part of their fight.
Organizer
Group of Friends of Jacqueline and Chris
Organizer
Issaquah, WA