My name is Jade, and Ian is my older brother. We grew up in the Midwest, and he now resides in Ventura, California, with his wife, Lauren and their chocolate lab Buddy. He served our country as a Marine and is currently a high form of security at a local university.

A few days before Thanksgiving, Ian went to the doctor because of a persistent cough and pressure in his chest. What was expected to be a regular doctors visit ended up being the beginning of several body scans, blood work, and biopsies. Ian was diagnosed with a very rare form of cancer, seminoma. This cancer is known for being extremely aggressive and started in Ian's chest cavity. This tumor is the size of a large grapefruit and is pressing against his lungs and heart. This tumor caused his initial chest pain and a build-up of over 40oz of fluid that had to be drained from his chest. The extreme pressure has caused his resting heart rate to sit between 110-140; because of this, he cannot lift any more than 5 pounds.

Ian will start a vigorous round of chemo on December 19th and will receive treatments for the next 3-4 months, depending on how the tumors respond. This fundraiser is to help Ian and Lauren with medical bills, travel to and from the hospital and their daily expenses, as Ian will be unable to work during his treatment.

With a significant part of their family and friends thousands of miles away, we want to remove as many worries or burdens as possible so they can focus on Ian's health.