My name is Steve, and I never imagined I’d be writing this. Recently, I was diagnosed with a large salivary cancer tumor—a rare form that accounts for just 1% of all cancers and only 0.5% of all malignancies. The news has been overwhelming, and I’m now preparing for a complex, 10–12 hour surgery at Shands in Gainesville on Tuesday the 24th. The procedure will involve harvesting donor tissue and bone, skin grafts to cover donor sites, and possibly losing part of my jaw bone. My surgeons will also perform an extensive dissection of my neck to remove a necrotic lymph node. Because the tumor is so large, I’ll need a free flap graft procedure, which is quite extensive and will require a week in the hospital, including three days in the ICU.

The financial impact of this diagnosis is significant. The funds raised here will help cover the costs of travel and lodging while I’m away from home, mounting medical bills, and the loss of income as my spouse takes time off work to care for me. Recovery will also include constant monitoring for two weeks after discharge, as well as speech therapy, swallowing therapy, and occupational therapy. Every bit of support will help ease the burden and allow us to focus on my recovery, rather than worrying about how we’ll manage the expenses.

I’ve always had a hard time asking for help in tough times—pride often clouds my judgment. But right now, I’m reaching out because I truly need support. If you’re able to donate or share my story, please know that your kindness means the world to me and my family. I can only offer my heartfelt thanks and love for anything you can do during this time of need. If anyone has questions about my procedure, I’m happy to answer. My surgery will be performed at Shands in Gainesville on Tuesday the 24th.