Be a part of Andy’s Army! Help support my recovery

Many of you know and probably some of you didn’t, but I moved to
Denver, Colorado in September of 2018 with a goal working toward a Master’s degree at the University of Colorado. I continue to serve in
the US Army and have my sights set on becoming a pilot.

One year ago, on April 30, 2019, I was diagnosed with a very rare and
aggressive form of testicular cancer. It was already in an advanced
stage as it had metastasized to my lungs, liver, and the lymph nodes in my thoracic region. I made it through pulmonary distress, a multitude
of crises, and four rounds of chemo during the 70 day hospital stay
right out of the gates. I underwent lymph node dissection surgery in
October to have residual tumor tissue removed. I finally had
normalized tumor markers!

While I tried to return to work in late November, things began to
worsen by December. Docs found that the cancer was regrowing in my
lungs and suspicious spots were on my spine. The new plan meant a
very long stay in Seattle, Washington, the home of the first available
spot for my necessary high-dose chemotherapy with stem cell
transplant. During my Seattle stay I require a caregiver every day,
whether I am inpatient or outpatient. My family and friends have been able to step up for this role.

I arrived January 21, 2020 to begin my journey. Things were moving
along as I was told they would until a month into the process the docs
discovered tumors in my brain that were growing quickly. I required
immediate brain surgery in late February. This delayed the start of the
treatment. At this time, while the surgery seemed to be a success and I have one cycle of treatment completed, I will require an additional
month of hospitalization and follow-up before I can leave Seattle. Once I am finally discharged, I will be able to begin my recovery home and away from hospitals.

I will be unable to return to work for 6-12 months, depending on my
strength and illness progression.  I will leave Seattle with many
restrictions. I chose to set this page up, at the encouragement of my
friends and family, to assist me moving forward with the expenses I will have in medical care, personal care, reimburse caregivers' expenses, and other financial responsibilities until I can resume working.

I cannot express how grateful I am for all of the love, support, and gifts I have received so far. In that respect I am a lucky man. I fully intend to
reach my life and career goals and if you join my Army, I am sure that I
can. Thank you all.