Support Matt Through Treatment for a Brain Tumor

Hi!

I'm Liz & I'm starting this for my brother Matt & his family

In late March, what began as an MRI for an unrelated ear issue turned into something nobody could have predicted: a brain tumor. The tumor, located near his brain stem, came as a complete shock and while hindsight always brings clarity, there were no obvious warning signs at the time.

Things moved quickly from there. After an initial consultation at UVMMC, Matt sought a 2nd opinion at Dartmouth where he was told that they did not believe the tumor was operable and could not even be biopsied due to the location. However, because of the tumors position, he needed a procedure called an Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy to relieve pressure and prevent hydrocephalus. That took place on May 1.

After he recovered, he decided to reach out to Memorial Sloan Kettering in NYC, hoping for answers and maybe a little hope. A few days later they were heading to New York where they met with a Neurologist and officially transferred his care to MSK. Matt & Kari have since been traveling back & forth between home and the city for appointments & scans to prepare for this week.

On Thursday Matt will be undergoing brain surgery. The goal: to biopsy the tumor and if at all possible, remove part or even all of the tumor.

It's an unimaginable journey, but through it all Matt has remained patient, grounded and hopeful, with Kari right by his side every step of the way.

We know he's going to be in the best hands he could possibly be in at MSK!!

It's important to share that Matt is reluctant and uncomfortable with the idea of any type of fundraiser. He's not used to being on this side of things. But as you can imagine, this has all come with an incredible emotional and financial strain. Matt will be out of work for quite some time & Kari will be taking time as needed to be by Matts side and we've had so many people reach out to ask what they can do to help.

It's my hope that this fundraiser will lighten some of the load - hopefully removing some of the financial stress including the travel, lodging, medical and recovery expenses that comes with navigating this.

Matt gives his all to his work, his home and most of all his family. He absolutely ADORES his beautiful wife Kari & their hilarious, spunky, almost-3-year-old son Weston - Together they love all things Vermont, weekends at camp, listening to music and playing with their dog Beckley.

We're already imagining next summer - Matt healthy, enjoying the lake and on the other side of this chapter.

Matt & Kari have their feet pointing forward with strength and the unwavering support of those around them. We're holding onto hope for healing and better days ahead.

In Matt's own words:

"2026 will be a better year" <3

Endlessly grateful for your love and support,

Liz

(If you would like to donate but not on this site, please reach out to me via fb, txt or email!)