Supporting Travis and his family

Hello friends and family of this tribe. My name is Mary and I get to be Travis’ sister.

There has been a quiet devil that has grown slowly in Travis’ neck. This February it was found and they diagnosed him with Chordoma, a rare bone cancer that can arise in the spine as a result of spinal development cells not dissipating after birth. He has had a 2" tumor removed from his neck and three vertebrae (C4,5,6) removed from his spine. The vertebrae were replaced with hardware. This kind of cancer does not respond well to chemotherapy, and due to its proximity to the spinal cord, arteries, brain, and now hardware, other treatment options are complicated. So the amount of resources available, locally, are not sufficient. His team of doctors and surgeons are confident that they were able to remove everything visible with the naked eye. Specialized radiation, performed by doctors who have experience with this type of cancer is the best option for success in eliminating or reducing future cancerous cell growth. It will need to be strong and very accurate to be effective. The best resources and team available to us are in Seattle, WA. Travis will undergo radiation therapy five days a week, for eight weeks straight. This isn’t an option.

He and his wife, Jenessa, along with their two daughters Ally Jo and Emma Rae, have climbed through the mountains of terror over the last couple of months but they are not out of the woods.

I asked him if we can help and I am thankful that he has allowed me to write this. We are reaching out to our tribe for support. If you know Travis, you know him to not ask for anything. If you know Travis, then he most definitely has been there for you in one way or another.

Hospital bills will come and insurance does not cover everything. Right now we are just looking for support in offsetting the cost of immediate needs and reduced wages during this time. Additionally any donations will help with travel, food, and lodging so he can receive the care he needs in Seattle. Graciously, asking for support and forever thankful for your friendship.

Travis is a good person, but cancer doesn’t discriminate.