Tracy Granquist Fight Cancer

In late August, 2023, Tracy found a "curious" spot on her right mandible (jaw). Not thinking too much of it, Tracy and Lance bought a new house in September. When the spot did not go away and started growing, Tracy had the spot checked. A biopsy came back positive for squamous cell carcinoma. In November of 2023, Tracy had an aggressive surgery to have the cancer removed. The surgery entailed having the mandible removed and replaced with her left fibula bone and skin grafts. After a long recovery from the surgery, Tracy underwent daily radiation treatments for 3 weeks. Tracy was told some swelling would be normal as a result of the treatments and surgery. Within weeks of completing radiation treatment, she noticed some swelling in her neck. Just as Tracy was ready to return to work, the swelling was getting worse but it was on the opposite side from her treatment. She was originally treated for an infection but when the swelling had an effect on her breathing, the doctors checked the swelling. Scans were taken and revealed that a large tumor was growing near and into her windpipe. She was admitted into the hospital immediately and the tumor was surgically removed. A 2nd trach was inserted to allow her to breath and her windpipe to heal while she undergoes further treatment. Several smaller tumors were also found in the neck area that will require an aggressive course of chemotherapy.

Due to the aggressive nature of this cancer, managing trach care while undergoing cancer treatments can be challenging. As a result, both Tracy and Lance will lose significant income due to a loss of work. Other expenses related to her care that are not covered by insurance are adding up.

Lance and Tracy have resisted asking for help as both of their employers have been very good to them. While doctors let them know what they were up against, it is becoming clear that this fight is going to be more difficult than anyone expected. We as her friends and family are always looking for ways to help support Tracy and Lance in their fight. As much as we would like to fight for them, we can't. But we can help them financially so at least they don't have to worry so much about lost income and added/unexpected expenses.