If you've been part of the Colorado lacrosse community over the past several decades, there's a good chance you've crossed paths with Matt Ehrlich.

Matt's connection to lacrosse began as a player at Smoky Hill High School in Aurora and continued at Colorado State University, where he eventually became President of the men's lacrosse team. After college, he stayed deeply involved in the game—running men's club teams, coaching, and becoming a referee.

Over the years, Matt has developed into one of the area's elite officials, working high school and club games as well as NCAA Division I lacrosse. But perhaps most importantly, lacrosse has also been something Matt has been able to share with his family. He has coached all three of his boys and spent countless hours on fields helping young players enjoy and grow in the game he loves.

Now, it's our opportunity to rally around Matt and his family.

Matt was recently diagnosed with pancreatic (Neuroendocrine) cancer that has metastasized to his liver. This week, he will travel to Wisconsin for surgery and will remain there throughout September as he recovers. His wife, Stacie, will be traveling back and forth to Wisconsin to be with Matt while also keeping life moving at home for their three boys, who are in middle school and high school.

In a matter of weeks, everyday family life has been replaced by surgery, treatment, travel, medical appointments, and the uncertainty that comes with a serious cancer diagnosis.

We've created this GoFundMe to help take some of that burden off Matt and Stacie so they can focus their energy where it belongs—on Matt's treatment and recovery and on their family.

Funds raised will help with expenses including:

Travel to and from Wisconsin

Lodging, meals, and transportation during Matt's extended stay

Medical and other out-of-pocket healthcare expenses

Additional family and household expenses during Matt's treatment and recovery

For years, Matt has given his time to the lacrosse community—as a player, teammate, leader, coach, mentor, and referee. Now it's our turn to show up for him.

Every contribution, no matter the amount, will help give the Ehrlich family one less thing to worry about during an incredibly difficult time.

If you're able to donate, please consider helping Matt, Stacie, and their boys. If donating isn't possible, please share this fundraiser with teammates, players, parents, coaches, officials, friends, and anyone else in the lacrosse community who may know Matt.

And please leave a note for Matt and his family. The messages of encouragement and support will mean just as much as they take on the road ahead.

Let's show the Ehrlich family just how big their team really is.