Have you met Jim, AKA Woody? Chances are that you have, since you’re here. Woody needs help. In August, he was diagnosed with a type of cancer called GIST. The usual mutations that cause this type of tumor are not the mutations that Jim has, which has made treatment options extremely slim. The biggest group of tumors in his abdomen is about the size of a football, but the involvement of other organs makes it inoperable.

On top of all of that (as if it is not difficult enough), UnitedHealthcare has denied the approval of one of the drugs that *MIGHT* shrink his tumors. The denial was appealed, but UHC upheld their denial. Out-of-pocket, this drug would cost approximately $16-30k per MONTH. Unfortunately, we have no other immediate options, and time is precious.

While the more pressing, and difficult, part of Jim’s cancer is his daily physical struggle with all of the symptoms (in addition to the emotional burden), the mounting financial stress is something that no one should have to worry about. Especially the man who saved people for a living, while being a husband and a father to three, and more recently, grandpa to two girls.

We understand that there is virtually no one who doesn’t have financial stress. But we are hoping that we can provide some monetary relief for our guy. Any amount that you are able to donate will truly make an BIG impact on his (and Heidi’s) day-to-day life. We appreciate everything more than you will ever know!!

With endless gratitude,

The Wodrich Family