
Support David Meadows' Battle Against Bone Marrow Cancer
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Help Support David Meadows in His Battle Against Bone Marrow Cancer
David Meadows has shown incredible strength and resilience in his 16-year journey battling bone marrow cancer, initially diagnosed as Essential Thrombocythemia (ET) with a CALR mutation. Over time, his condition progressed to Myelofibrosis, which he monitored closely since 2016. For years, David remained asymptomatic and lived a fulfilling life, radiating optimism and positivity. However, in 2024, his disease rapidly advanced, presenting new and urgent challenges.
This past summer, after contracting COVID-19, David’s spleen more than doubled in size, leading to the onset of severe symptoms. He began JAK2 inhibitor therapy with the goal of reducing his spleen size and preparing for a life-saving bone marrow transplant this winter, with his brother Andy as the donor.
David’s health journey has been a rollercoaster. He has endured significant pain, anemia, a decreased appetite, and rapid weight loss. A few weeks ago, extreme weakness necessitated a hospital stay at Moffitt Cancer Center. While there, David has faced neurological and respiratory challenges, undergone physical therapy, and required careful pain management and nourishment. Unfortunately, a bone marrow transplant cannot be performed in this condition.
Most recently, David underwent a tracheostomy to support his breathing. Over the next several days, he will work with his respiratory team to strengthen his lungs and practice breathing on his own. On Monday, he may have a G-tube inserted to replace his NG tube for feeding. Meanwhile, his care team is considering additional chemotherapy treatments while exploring potential diagnoses, including Guillain-Barré Syndrome, axonal motor neuropathy, or Stiff Person Syndrome.
Despite these hurdles, David’s indomitable spirit continues to shine. Those who know him are inspired by his contagious smile and unwavering positivity. He has always uplifted others, and now it’s our turn to uplift him.
How You Can Help David’s journey is far from over. His family is committed to supporting him every step of the way, but they need our help. Your contributions can make an incredible difference in covering medical expenses, ensuring family members can remain by David’s side, and providing the resources needed to support his recovery and eventual transplant.
What the Funds Will Be Used For
- Insurance co-pays and out-of-pocket medical expenses
- Skilled nursing and rehab costs not covered by insurance
- Living expenses, including insurance and home costs
- Stem cell transplant out-of-pocket costs
- 24-hour caregiver support for a minimum of 60 days
- Hotel or condo accommodations near Moffitt Cancer Center for at least 60 days
- Other essential cost-of-living expenses
Every donation, no matter the size, brings David closer to overcoming these obstacles and achieving the strength he needs for a bone marrow transplant. If you’re unable to contribute financially, sharing David’s story is another powerful way to help.
What Happens If Circumstances Change? The Meadows family is incredibly grateful for your generosity and support. In the event David’s journey takes an unexpected turn, any remaining funds will be used to cover outstanding medical bills, end-of-life expenses, and to support his family during this challenging time. Your contributions are deeply appreciated and will be handled with care and respect.
Send Messages of Love In addition to financial support, you can send cards or care gifts to:
Carrie and Andy Meadows
1203 Willowick Cir
Safety Harbor, FL 34695
Your kindness and support mean the world to the Meadows family as they navigate this challenging time. Thank you for sharing your blessings, love, and prayers with David and his loved ones. Together, we can give David the strength to keep fighting and the hope to heal.
Please visit his CaringBridge page: David's CaringBridge for updates on David's progress.
Co-organizers (2)
Alexander Meadows
Organizer
Safety Harbor, FL
Andy Meadows
Beneficiary
Carrie Meadows
Co-organizer