If you know David and Bethany Roush, you know they are the kind of people who would give you the shirt off their back without a second thought. David is a devoted husband to Bethany, a loving dad and grandfather, and a steady presence for so many.

Recently, David was diagnosed with cancer — news that has completely turned their world upside down. As they begin the fight ahead, they’re facing not only the emotional toll of treatment, but also mounting medical bills and time away from work. Below are Bethany's words describing their journey and their need.

Last winter, David began experiencing what he described as indigestion—pain in his esophagus. He used OTC meds to ease his discomfort, but they didn’t help, and the pain continued and worsened. In April, he went to the emergency room. They couldn’t find anything except constipation and referred him to a GP. The GP referred him to a GI.

In August, he had an endoscopy and colonoscopy where they found a tumor at the base of his esophagus. He has done one round of chemotherapy and radiation and handled that like a champ. In December, they scanned again and said he’s ready for surgery. He is now at that point.

This will be an extreme and invasive surgery in which they remove his esophagus from the heart down, then take the upper half of his stomach to reconstruct his esophagus. Two weeks in the hospital and a 12-week recovery or longer without work and very limited income, but growing expenses from the treatment, surgery, and follow-up.

During this process, Bethany is doing her best to make ends meet by working multiple jobs. She also will be the primary caregiver for David during his recovery.

We’re asking for help to ease that burden so they can focus on what matters most: healing, hope, and time together. Please consider giving. Every dollar will go toward medical and household bills.