On October 17th, my husband and I sat in a doctor's office at UCSF and heard the words we had never expected - at age 27, Thomas has to face testicular cancer. 

We were shocked, surprised, and stunned. Recently we had begun planning to start a family, and Thomas has always been healthy. The local doctor had initially been dismissive of his questions - until he received the ultrasound results. Even after being quickly referred to UCSF, we were grateful to be seeing a specialist, but did not expect to hear cancer. 

The doctor initially wanted to schedule his surgery this week, until we explained we live out of the area. We are waiting to have the surgery scheduled, but it will be within the next two to three weeks. Thomas is scheduled for more scans and tests the day after his surgery to determine if he needs chemotherapy. 

This has all happened so fast. In July, Thomas chose to pursue the career he'd always enjoyed, and began working construction with his Dad. While this has made him happy and enjoy his job, it does not provide paid leave. We have good health insurance, but will still incur substantial charges. 

We are reaching out to our friends and loved ones and trying to raise money for the surgery. We need to travel to UCSF, sleep and eat in San Francisco for three days and help with costs as Thomas recovers. Thomas is in good spirits and hoping for a successful surgery that effectively removes the cancer. Any help at all would be hugely appreciated, we will keep you updated as we hear more. 

Thank you with all of our hearts.