Support Chris Montgomery's Leukemia Battle

About a month or two ago, our dear friend Chris Montgomery - devoted dad, loving husband, and brilliant artist – began feeling ill.

Nothing dramatic – just run of the mill flu-like symptoms. But when his symptoms didn’t resolve, his wife Ernalyn urged him to seek medical care. He was told it was a virus and to have blood work done the following week. He went 2 weeks later and results were extremely frightening – and indicative of a serious medical condition.

Almost immediately, Chris was hospitalized, required platelets and blood transfusion. CT scan revealed an enlarged spleen and liver. Bone marrow biopsy was performed. He was able to go home for 2 days and asked to return to the hospital within an hour of receiving the diagnosis of lymphoblastic leukemia in 90% of his bone marrow. This is a very aggressive form of leukemia and will require immediate treatment. Due to WBC 1.0, HGB 7, Platelets 9, Chris had undergone additional round of blood transfusions and chemotherapy started the following day. Chris will be enduring several long hospitalizations.

His treatment regimen Cycle 1 : 3-4 weeks in hospital, then 1 week home followed by Cycle 2: 3-4 weeks in hospital, then 1 week home. Then repeat!!!! All of this will continue until he can get a bone marrow transplant.

Chris is facing this horrible fight with quiet bravery, and Ernalyn has done absolutely heroic work managing their family all while being right there by his side.

In a matter of 5 days their lives have changed. The toll that this illness and the intense treatment will be quite significant on the family. For that reason, a group of Chris and Ernalyn’s close friends have set up this fundraiser for them. Agreeing to this fundraiser was not an easy decision for them, but we know the family will greatly appreciate any help they receive.

Any and all funds received will help support the Montgomerys' basic needs – groceries, rent, utilities, insurance deductibles, medical bills, and other basic living expenses.

The Montgomerys are an incredible family joined together and strengthened by their endless love for one another and their profound commitment to their friends and families. And countless people have rallied around them in this tough time to support them with meals, gift cards, visits, prayer, and fellowship.

But given the transition to this new phase of Chris’ treatment while he fights for his future, we wanted to streamline people’s ability to support them during this time.

Every contribution will help ease the burden on these beautiful people.

With deepest thanks on behalf of the Montgomery Family!

Jodi Ortega