Family and friends, we are reaching out today because our brother, Matt, has recently been handed a challenge no one is ever prepared for. On Friday, March 6, 2026, he was diagnosed with Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the tongue.

While we are standing firm in our hope because it was caught early, the reality of the medical journey ahead is becoming clear. Matt will soon have an MRI and PET scan to determine the full scope of his upcoming surgery and any other treatment plans deemed necessary to fight this cancer. He will be under the amazing care of doctors and specialists at The James Cancer Hospital at The Ohio State University.

Matt’s world revolves around his family and community. He is the proud dad of Millie and Will. His wife, Jen, a dedicated teacher, is doing everything she can to keep life "normal" for the kids while navigating this new medical reality.

Cancer treatment is an expensive marathon. As they prepare for Matt to be away from work for surgery and a potentially long recovery, even with insurance, the "hidden" costs of a diagnosis like this can be overwhelming for a young family.

Surgery & hospitalization, scans and possible radiation, gas for trips to specialists, food, hospital parking, comfort care, the specialized nutrition Matt will need during his recovery, offsetting the loss of Matt's income while he heals and allowing his wife the flexibility to take time off from her classroom to care for him and the kids are just a few things they will face as Matt undergoes treatment.

Our goal is to ensure that Matt’s only "job" right now is getting healthy. We want to take the stress of the mortgage, the bills, and the medical invoices off their plate. If you are unable to donate financially, Matt and his family will appreciate any and all prayers.

Please pray that all cancer is taken from Matt's body and he has complete healing. Please pray for rest and relax his mind as sleepless nights have overcome him with racing thoughts and uneasiness of the unknown. Please pray for Millie and Will - so they are able to go about life as children should and not be worrisome. We ask for special prayers for Jen as she navigates the memories of her past with losing her dad to cancer, while fighting for her husband’s future. We want to surround Jen with a level of support that allows her to breathe, to be present for Matt, and to remain the steady rock for their two young children without the crushing weight of financial fear.

Keep Matt in your thoughts & prayers as they head into Friday’s MRI and a plan is made with his oncology team next week.

We will keep this page updated and adjust as we learn more about his treatment plan and surgery dates. Thank you for being part of Matt’s village.

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