My name is Jon Ruby, and I’m asking for help for a close friend of mine and my family, Phil Andersen.

Ten years ago, Phil was diagnosed with a hemangioma vascular tumor on his T3 vertebra, which required extensive surgery and a long recovery. Recently, Phil began experiencing numbness in his legs and learned that the tumor has returned.

On March 31, Phil underwent an embolization procedure in preparation for a major surgery on April 1 to remove the tumor and replace hardware in his spine. The embolization was successful, and we are all hopeful that his surgery will be as well. However, Phil is facing a long recovery that could take up to three months.

Phil is a devoted husband to his wife, Kassie, and a proud father to Blake, Liam, Logan, and Sawyer. He’s also a loyal friend and passionate musician. Since 2018, Phil has worked as a maintenance technician at Sanford Clear Lake Medical Center, and he recently started a band, Sinking Under, with friends.

Phil is the sole provider for his family. While he does have disability coverage through work, it only replaces about 60% of his income. During this time, we are hoping to help ease the financial burden on Phil and his family by assisting with travel expenses to and from Sanford in Sioux Falls, lodging, gas, and everyday living costs.

If you know Phil—as family, a friend, or through music—you know the kind of person he is. He’s the type who would show up for anyone without hesitation.

Any support, no matter the amount, is deeply appreciated.

Thank you.