Support Travis's Fight Against Brain Cancer

Early on Sunday, June 8, we received an urgent prayer request from our daughter, Rachel. After just a day on vacation in South Bend, Indiana, she had to rush her husband, Travis, to the ER. He had been dealing with headaches and migraines since he was involved in a car accident in 2017 that had been getting progressively worse. After a CT scan, they found a brain bleed, and he was admitted to ICU there. Further testing discovered a golf-ball sized tumor on his brain stem.

On Monday, June 9, he was life flighted to The James Center at Ohio State University Hospital to be closer to home. Testing at The James discovered a lesion on the front of his brain that was leaking, creating pressure. The surgeons performed surgery to relieve that pressure and also biopsied the tumor.

Results of the biopsy returned, and Travis is diagnosed with a Grade 4 Astrocytoma, which is an aggressive and non-curable cancer. Surgery is very risky, as the tumor is very close to major parts of his brain. In addition, the tumor has broken. Fortunately, it has not metastasized to his spine. Treatments are still up in the air, but radiation is scheduled to begin each weekday, beginning on July 1 through mid-August. He will also be scheduled for physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.

Travis was able to go home last Wednesday, but had to be taken by squad back to OSU on Thursday because of severe pain and nausea. He had another surgery today to place a shunt, as the tumor is putting pressure on the 3rd right ventricle, preventing the cerebral fluid from draining as it should. He is unable to open his eyes without becoming sick, nor is he able to move his eyes in all directions.

Travis is only 43. He and Rachel gave us our 8-year-old granddaughter, Teigan. In addition to astronomical medical bills, they still have basic living expenses that need to be taken care of. Rachel has stayed by Travis’s side throughout this entire ordeal and has not returned to work. Rachel needs her husband, and Teigan needs her daddy.

Many have asked how they can help. We are praying for a miracle of healing for Travis. Will you believe with us? We also ask that you consider contributing through this campaign to offset upcoming expenses as they face this unimaginable battle.

Thank you for helping our son in law, our daughter, and our granddaughter in any way you can.

Tish & Rusty