At just 42 years old, Clay’s life—and the lives of everyone who love him—was turned upside down by a diagnosis we never saw coming: Stage 4 metastatic prostate cancer.

For months, Clay had been battling severe, unexplained pain. He went through not one, but two hip surgeries in hopes of finding relief. Despite everything, the pain never went away—and no one could give answers as to why.

When the pain became unbearable, Heather took him to the ER, desperate for answers. It was there, after the right scans were finally done, that they received the devastating truth: advanced cancer. In an instant, everything changed.

Since then, it feels like each doctor visit brings more heartbreaking news. They are doing their best to hold onto hope, but it’s becoming harder with every update. This cancer is aggressive and relentless. What makes this even more difficult is that the average age for this diagnosis is between 66 and 68—making Clay’s situation especially rare and heartbreaking at just 42.

Even now, Clay is doing everything he can to keep life as normal as possible. He continues to go to work, determined to provide for his family, all while undergoing treatments and enduring ongoing pain. On top of that, he still shows up for his kids—supporting them at their sporting events and rodeos whenever he can. His strength, love, and dedication as a father are nothing short of incredible—but the toll is real.

The Marriott family has always been the kind of people who show up for others. They have given an endless amount of service, time, love, and resources to help those in need. Heather herself made the extraordinary decision to donate one of her kidneys to save another person’s life. That’s simply who they are—selfless, compassionate, and always putting others first. After all they have given to others, they are now the ones in need of help.

This journey is especially emotional for their family as their oldest son, Stockton, is currently serving a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Texas. Being far from home during such a difficult time has added another layer of heartache as they navigate this together from a distance.

With these overwhelming challenges they are now facing, we are hoping to help ease the financial burden—from mounting medical bills and treatment costs to unexpected expenses, fuel for travel, and daily needs. Most importantly, we want to help give them the ability to focus on what truly matters: making memories and cherishing whatever time Clay has left with his family.

Please consider donating, sharing this fundraiser, or lifting this family up in prayer. Pray for comfort, for strength, and for peace in the days ahead. Please also keep their children in your prayers as they walk through something no family is ever prepared for.

Thank you for standing with the Marriott family during this incredibly difficult time. Your kindness, prayers, and support mean more than words can express.