Kaufman Family Fund

Mike Kaufman, a devoted husband, father and friend, was recently diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma - a very rare and aggressive type of cancerous tumor that grows in the bones and soft tissue around the bones. Mike noticed a lump on his shin a year ago, but having no other symptoms, didn't think much of it. After several flare ups over the summer, no doubt brought on by his physically demanding job as a delivery driver for Pepsi, Mike was prompted to see a doctor about his leg. Following many tests, appointments, and weeks of waiting, Mike received the diagnosis of this rare disease and learned that the cancer had spread to his lungs.

At just 33 years old and with two small children, this was devastating news. Making Mike's case even more unusual is that Ewing Sarcoma typically affects children and teens ages 10-20 and is not commonly found in adults. Because of the uniqueness of his situation, Mike sought a second opinion and was fortunate to get an appointment with Dr. Paul Meyer at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in Manhattan, home of the largest sarcoma program in the world. Mike's doctors at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh have agreed to treat him using the ground-breaking chemotherapy created by Dr. Meyer, and thus saving Mike and his family from relocating to New York City for the next year.

Specific timelines are still unclear and will be dependent on his response to treatment, but we know that Mike will receive 17 rounds of chemotherapy over the next year.  After the first half of treatments are completed and the tumor has shrunk, Mike will return to Sloan to have the tumor removed. Because it has grown into the soft tissue around Mike's tibia, there is a chance that his leg will need to be amputated. Following the surgery, Mike will continue his chemotherapy. As with all chemo, the side effects will be harsh, leaving Mike unable to work for at least 1 year.  

While the Kaufmans are thankful to have insurance and short term disability to cover some of the expenses they will face, they will be losing the majority of their income while Mike is receiving treatment. Mike's loving wife, Amanda Kaufman, will also take a leave from work to care for him and their two young boys - Brooks, 3.5 years and Connor, 5 months. Funds raised through this page will be used to cover daily living expenses for Mike, Amanda, Brooks and Connor, as well as travel costs to New York City so Mike can be seen by his doctors at Sloan as needed. Funds will be given directly to the family and will be used for the following: groceries, mortgage and car payments, transportation to and from treatment, travel and lodging expenses in New York City as needed, and the multitude of other expenses that come with having two young children. 

Mike begins chemotherapy on December 17. He will remain in the hospital for 3 days during each round. Both Mike and his doctors are eager to start his treatments and begin this difficult fight. 

In addition to your financial support, Mike and Amanda are extremely grateful for your prayers during this time. Because Mike's immune system will be suppressed and he will need to follow a strict diet, the family respectfully asks for Giant Eagle or Aldi gift cards in lieu of meal donations. 

On behalf of the Kaufman family, we thank you for your generosity.