Round 2.

Not the news anyone wanted:

Rachel's initial stem-cell transplant and the subsequent "boost" she received have not yielded the results she needs. Her white blood cell and neutrophil counts remain critically low, and she continues to face a slew of ongoing, dangerous complications due to her weakened immune system.

The goal with this second GoFundMe is to support Rachel in her ongoing fight against Myelofibrosis (a type of blood cancer) and to help Kyle care for their boys, Harrison and Bennett, as they navigate moving through this.

Over the past seven months, Rachel has needed to stay in the hospital seven times due to various infections. Most recently, she contracted a rare fungus called Lasiodiplodia Viticola most commonly found in plants.

This virus which typically attacks plants found it's way into her body due to her inability to fend off even mild environmental particles. In a dedicated effort to combat the infection, Rachel underwent four major sinus surgeries within 15 days, aimed at clearing the affected area. With the debridement from her surgeries and the help of intensive treatments, she is able to continue to fight.

She is currently at home administering IV medication through her PICC line and will require ongoing treatment for several months. While the hope is she can continue to fight the fungal infection, the toxicity of the medications are destroying her liver and kidneys and the nausea prevents her from eating. To date, she has lost over 40 pounds and to be frank, she's running out of time.

Just this week, Rachel and Kyle learned that she may soon need a second stem-cell transplant. This brings several new considerations for their family:

1. They will need community support. The funds from their first GoFundMe have been entirely utilized. Rachel's medical journey requires her to maintain private insurance, which has substantial monthly costs. Alongside medication, hospital visits, and critical interventions, they now face heightened financial demands.

2. The family is beginning to discuss potential future scenarios, focusing on the well-being of Harrison and Bennett. It’s vital to ensure they have access to summer camps, activities, therapy, and everyday essentials.

While the road ahead is tough, Rachel and Kyle are demonstrating incredible resilience. They are feeling a mix of fear and frustration, knowing they’ve made countless sacrifices throughout this journey, but they remain hopeful.

I read a quote once that said: "Just because I carry it well, doesn't mean it isn't heavy." This beautifully encapsulates their current situation. Despite the challenges, Rachel, Kyle, Harrison, and Bennett are showing strength in carrying on, facing each day with courage and grace. Let's continue to stand alongside them.

Thank you so much.

Megan