Hi everyone,

We’re sharing this with heavy hearts and a lot of hope. Our dear friend Ed McClain has recently been diagnosed with Stage 4 Bilateral Lung Cancer, and his world — along with his wife Karen’s — has been turned upside down.

Just today, Ed received the results of a PET scan, which showed that the cancer in his lungs has grown quickly and has now spread to his bones and a small spot on his brain. Because of how fast everything is moving, his doctors are starting chemotherapy next week — they’re not even waiting for insurance approval, which really says a lot about how serious things have become.

The plan is for Ed to begin with two rounds of chemo, then they’ll do another scan to see if it’s helping. The goal is to give him as much time and comfort as possible. Even with treatment, the current outlook is 6 months to 2 years depending of treatment success.

Ed and Karen have made the tough decision to take some time away from work to focus on his care and to soak up every moment together. Ed works as a forklift operator in Orting, and Karen works in customer service in Maple Valley, all while managing her own chronic health condition — progressive Mixed Autoimmune Disease.

Their story is one of second chances and deep love. After spending some time apart years ago, Ed and Karen found their way back to each other and have been together for the past 15 years. They’ve shared a quiet, grounded life in their small town and recently took a meaningful family cruise with Karen’s children, Ethan and McKenna, and even her ex-husband — a testament to the strong, blended family they’ve built.

They had been dreaming of a vacation to Belize, hoping to make more memories together next year. Now, their focus has shifted to comfort, healing, and time — time to be together without the added weight of financial stress.

We’re raising funds to help Ed and Karen with:

• Nutritious food and natural supplements to support Ed’s body during treatment

• Medical costs and anything insurance doesn’t cover; low ph soap, creams for dry skin, natural remedies.

• Everyday living expenses while they’re away from work; electricity bills, gas, rent, insurance premiums that will be hard to stay on top of with Ed’s state Term disability income.

• They are also asking for help with lawn care or extra funds to pay someone. They live in an area with lots of trees and shrubs that can overgrow quickly if not maintained.

They’re not asking for a miracle — just a little help so they can walk this road with less stress and more time for what really matters. They want to be present with each other as much as possible with the little time Ed has left.

Ed is a man with great pride and asking for help is something he’s never allowed himself to do, but he knows he needs it right now more than ever.

If you feel moved to give, it would mean the world to them. Even if $5 is all you can give, it makes a difference. And if you can’t donate right now, sharing this with others would be just as helpful .

All funds will go directly to Karen, Ed’s wife! If you or someone you know is interested in helping with lawn maintenance or yard work, please feel free to message either one of us through Facebook. Felisha Nelsen, Karen McClain

Thank you for showing up for Ed and Karen. Your kindness means more than you know.

With love and gratitude,

Karen’s Niece - Felisha Nelsen