My name is Courtney Crouch and I am starting this go fund me for my Sister-in-law Heather Rutledge during an incredibly difficult time for her and her family.

Just over a year ago, in the fall of 2024, Heather's husband Brian-my brother-in-law—was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. By the time of diagnosis, the cancer had already spread throughout his body, including his thyroid, lungs, liver, and spleen. Since then, Brian has undergone chemotherapy and faced unimaginable challenges with strength and

courage.

Heather and Brian have been very private about Brian's diagnosis and the hardships they've been enduring, and they have never once asked for help.

Unfortunately, just prior to Christmas 2025, Brian's health took a significant turn for the worse. In addition to the cancer and the side effects of chemotherapy, he has suffered from uncontrolled blood clots, pulmonary embolisms, internal bleeding, heart complications, and most recently, a collapsed lung.

Brian is currently in the ICU, and doctors are limited in treatment options because his body is unable to produce enough platelets.

Over the past several months, Brian's health has declined rapidly, resulting in multiple ambulance rides, emergency room visits, and hospital admissions. Through it all, Heather has remained by his side.

Heather and Brian have been together since high school and have been married for 31 years.

Heather works over 40 hours a week and is Brian's primary caregiver, with help from their youngest son. Due to the severity of Brian's illness and his need for around-the-clock care, Heather has had to take significant time off work and has now exhausted all of her paid time off.

We have set a fundraising goal of $15,000 to help cover mounting medical bills, household expenses, fuel costs, groceries, and other financial burdens that come with long-term illness. This support will allow Heather to focus on caring for Brian without the constant fear of falling behind financially.

If you are able, please consider donating-no amount is too small. Even $5 makes a difference. If you are unable to donate, sharing this page is another powerful way to help.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your kindness, prayers, and support for Heather, Brian, and their sons, Xavier and Hunter during this incredibly difficult journey.