My name is Brittany, my family consists of my husband, Neil and children Xana (17), and Bryden (8). I have never been one to reach out for help in any type of capacity, never mind on here. It comes with an uncomfortable vulnerability, among other emotions, but I am here asking for any little bit of help.

My husband, Neil was first diagnosed with colon cancer on March 27, 2018. He went through rounds of radiation and chemo and eventually surgery to remove his tumour, and in 2019 he was given a clean bill of health.

In December of 2021 he underwent another surgery for a permanent colostomy due to bowel difficulties he had been struggling with since his tumour removal in 2018.

In May of 2023 he went under the knife yet again for a colostomy revision because of ongoing issues at the stoma site.

On March 7th, 2024 we were given the gut wrenching news that his cancer was back. At the age of 33,  Neil was diagnosed with stage 4 Colon Cancer with Metastases to his right lung. He started radiation on March 8 and underwent 5 treatments in Winnipeg MB. He will soon start chemotherapy treatments. Unfortunately, the treatment regimen comes with some very challenging side effects like skin rash, tremendous weakness and extreme fatigue, nausea and vomiting.

This fight has been physically, emotionally and financially draining for the both of us. He has been unable to work for months due to related symptoms, and has exhausted sickness benefits.

However, the income received from the benefits was insufficient to cover our expenses, leaving us financially stressed. While we are exceedingly grateful for Canada's healthcare system covering the treatment, the weight of related expenses such as travel, accommodations, and food, along with the other everyday bills of a family of four, is quickly adding up.

That's why I am reaching out for your support. Through this GoFundMe campaign, we hope to raise funds to cover:

• Medical expenses: includes medications not covered by insurance and other treatment-related costs.

• Any travel expenses related to treatment.

• Additional therapy: to help manage the side effects and improve his overall well-being.

• Groceries and other necessities: to help us navigate this challenging time, your contribution will ensure that we can cover basic necessities for our family.

No amount is too small, and every contribution will significantly impact our lives. Your support will ease our financial burden and provide Neil with enormous strength and encouragement during his treatments. I want to help Neil, who fights this disease every day with immense optimism, to keep fighting without having the financial burden constantly looming over his head, and I need your help to do so.

Please consider sharing this campaign with your network on social media. Together, we can show the power of community support in my family’s time of need.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your kindness, compassion, and generosity.