Caring for the Carik-Keils

As you may know, Daniel "Bucky" Carik was diagnosed with tongue cancer in April 2016.  Being a total champ, Bucky went through several rounds of chemo and radiation to try to eliminate the tumor.  Despite his hard work, the chemo and radiation did not completely eliminate the tumor.  Bucky - again, demonstrating his unflinching strength - underwent surgery to remove part of his tongue, which was then reconstructed with parts of his leg and arm.   See...we weren't kidding when we called Bucky a "total champ." Though cautiously optimistic,  we thought that the surgery had finally done the trick and removed the remainder of the tumor.

Much to everyone's dismay, Bucky recently learned that his cancer is back and is spreading aggressively.  He is planning to try immunotherapy and/or enroll in a clinical trial at NIH, but has been advised that the success rates of these treatments are low. 

Bucky and his sweet, amazing, kind, strong wife Deanna need a break.  This last year has been nothing short of hell for two of the best people we know.   Since his recent news, Bucky has expressed the desire to go visit the West Coast before he is too sick to travel. 

We know that Bucky and Deanna would never ask and will likely be "mad" at us for even setting up this fund -- but we are hoping to raise some money so they can go on a well-deserved trip. There will come a time - possibly soon - when Bucky and Deanna will not be able to work.  We don't want them to have to choose between paying bills and taking this trip.   

We are asking that you keep this page private.  Bucky and Deanna have been fairly private throughout this process and we would like to respect their wishes. 

- Love Abby, Nicky, Andrew, and Steven