Hope for Garth

I’ve created this fundraiser because I need to save my dad. In January of 2017 he was diagnosed with a Thymic Carcinoma. This is a rare tumor that grows on the outside surface of the thymus, which is located near the heart. This is an aggressive cancer that can spread through tissue, the lymph system, and the blood. Our only option is surgery. Due to the location of the tumor this is a very risky operation.  After countless hours searching for the most qualified specialist, we were able to locate a doctor at Stanford University Medical Center. Despite all of our efforts fighting with our insurance company, they have declined payment for his surgery at Stanford, denying him his best chance to become cancer free.


I write this wanting to say a million things about the man who has done so much. A man who puts himself last to everything else in his life, he fathers seven children and continues to foster many. My dad donates his time and love to the community and gives back selflessly. This is for a man who is so used to helping others that taking the time to ask for help for himself would never cross his mind. The possibility of losing my dad prematurely is so painful to think about. The toll emotionally so far on my family, especially my mom has been difficult for me to watch. I dont know if our family could survive his loss. This is not only me but seven kids plea for help, we are not ready to say goodbye to our dad who hasn't even witnessed who we will become or held a grandchild. To be robbed of the beautiful memories to come in the future with our dad, due to a financial challenge is not something we can accept. He has given twenty eight years of his life dedicated to raising and providing for us children, it's our turn to provide for him.


 The goal is not only to pay for surgery, but to help with his recovery and the time he will lose from work. The type of chemo treatments he will need after surgery are also not covered by insurance. It is very difficult asking for help, I recognize everyone is fighting battles. As his daughter, this is my last chance at getting him the proper medical attention he so greatly deserves.  To those of you who choose to donate or simply share this with friends, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. You will forever be a part of the many smiles my family hopes to share in years to come.

                                         Haley Collins


Heal me, lord, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise.  Jeremiah:17