Supporting Melissa's Proton Radiation Treatment.

How did we get here? June 21 Melissa went into the ER with severe nerve pain. The ER Doctor ordered an MRI & thats when they discovered not only a Herniated Disc causing the nerve pain, but the MRI also showed a large Mass on Melissa's Brain. She was sent to St. Vincents where they diagnosed her with a tumor called Chondrosarcoma. During her 11 day hospital stay, Melissa underwent neck surgery for her herniated disc. September 5th underwent an 11hr craniotomy. The surgeon was able to remove 98% of the tumor! What is left is located on a corroded artery & is only able to be removed through radiation treatment.

Well, here we are. So close to a finish line. Multiple trips to the hospital, countless emotional battles and overwhelming decisions to be made. We knew after Melissa's brain surgery the next step would be radiation. Melissa's surgeon & the tumor board reviewed her situation and said her best chance to remove the remaining tumor would be a new treatment called proton therapy.

We've made the decision to move forward with her proton radiation treatments, However, it's a decision that comes with a significant financial and emotional burden.

This treatment is only available at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer center in Seattle Washington. If Melissa doesn't get this treatment, her tumor will grow back, only this time it is located in a spot that's inoperable. So, we decided one way or another we are doing it and this couldn't wait any longer. As this is a newer technology, insurance is pushing back on covering the cost. Melissa will be required to live in Seattle for 8weeks while undergoing proton therapy. Not only is there a significant cost for the treatment itself but also the cost of living starting Nov 21st.

Conversations with our 3 children have been some of the most heart-wrenching we've ever had. Their life has been just as confusing and turned upside down as ours. Explaining the necessity of Melissa's time away during the holidays was incredibly tough, especially for our daughter who thought her mom was better after her multiple surgeries. It's hard to explain to your kids, but we know that the cost of not pursuing this treatment would be far more devastating news to deliver in the future.

It's incredibly hard to ask for help. I understand that times are challenging for so many in general, which makes asking even more difficult. I never anticipated losing an income, or mounting hospital bills simultaneously with out-of-pocket treatments but I'm putting my pride aside and would love your support. I need my wife's smile back on her face as it seems to be contagious putting smiles on my kid's faces and everyone around her!

We are grateful for any size donation and your contribution will directly support Melissa's treatment expenses and help cover the cost of living during her stay in Seattle.

Our determination to emerge from this challenging period is stronger than ever, and with your support, we will get that smile back on her face.

Thank you! :)