We became friends with Marty and Rachel when our sons became friends at preschool. Last fall, their lives changed suddenly when Marty, a healthy and active father, was unexpectedly diagnosed with acute leukemia.

For months, they have been navigating intensive treatment. Marty is now preparing for a stem cell transplant in April. This offers a chance at cure but will also be the most physically and mentally challenging part of this journey, likely keeping him in the hospital for at least three months.

During this time, Marty will not be able to work. Rachel will be balancing caring for their four-year-old son, supporting Marty's treatment, and working full time. The hospital is 90 minutes away, and like many families facing cancer, the challenges of managing everyday life alongside medical care is daunting.

We started this fundraiser to help cover childcare, caregiving support, and treatment-related expenses, so their family can maintain stability during transplant and recovery.

If you're able to contribute and share, it would mean a great deal. Community support will help this family focus on what really matters right now: treatment, recovery, and their young son.