In the summer of 2024, my dad, Dave was diagnosed with stage 3/4 adenocarcinoma in his lung. He began chemotherapy and radiation treatments since the tumor was too large and in too complex of an area to remove surgically. After the round of treatment, the tumor had shrunk significantly and showed to be in remission. Doctors then began a regimen of immunotherapy to help maintain remission.

However in fall of 2025, debilitating pain returned and doctors determined the tumor had come back. WashU doctors in St Louis determined the only way forward was to try and remove the tumor. Surgeons performed an incredibly challenging and risky lobectomy, due to the tumor’s location close to his heart and including vasculature.

Currently he is undergoing another round of challenging chemotherapy treatments since the tumor was invading lymph nodes. Additionally, he will need to undergo a procedure (while in chemo) to have a catheter inserted into his heart. Due to radiation therapy close to his heart, it has rapidly increased calcification.

Amongst all of the challenges that he has faced, my Mom Becky has been tirelessly by his side as his constant caretaker and advocate. She has had to take leave from her job (as well as Dad who is on disability) and they are facing a tremendous amount of stress and financial burden due to the numerous hospital stays, scans, emergency room trips (including a helicopter ride!), medication, physical and occupational therapy, office visits, etc.

Any help that you could provide would be greatly appreciated and would help to ease the strain financially and allow them to focus their energy where it matters; on healing and taking care of themselves.

If you would like to contribute in any other way (meals, gift cards, etc) please reach out and let me know.