In his 67 years, Pastor Burke Shade has been a powerhouse of godly discipleship and diligent servanthood. The lives he’s changed for the better would be hard to number.

Pastor Shade has battled reoccurring cancer several times throughout his life, successfully beating it back more than once.

His more recent cancer diagnosis, unfortunately, has progressed to a more serious stage. It has spread to his lymph nodes and part of one lung. In the words of a doctor friend, “It’s an ugly diagnosis”.

Pastor Shade hopes to make a several month trip back to a cancer clinic in Arizona that has successfully treated him in the past. This visit will be more intensive and last several months.

Although insurance will hopefully reimburse him for much of his treatment, it will not cover all and their cost of living (rental, food, transportation). And the initial out of pocket amount will be substantial. Additionally, Pastor Shade will not be able to work during this period.

Burke and his wife, Ruth, are intending to potentially downsize their home and cash out their savings to cover these costs. Family has also rallied in support.

However, we also know how many lives he’s touched in his time. If you have the ability to help (by donating enough for a meal, a day/week in their rental, or a larger portion to help cover medical expenses), we would be eternally grateful.