My name is Krissy Rankin, and I’m raising funds for my longtime friend, Brian Rogers. In June 2025, a rare giant cell tumor (GCT) was discovered in Brian’s pelvis following an X-ray to check out persistent hip pain. GCTs are benign and treatable 95% of the time. Unfortunately, though initially diagnosed and treated as benign, Brian’s GCT turned out to be the extraordinarily rare malignant type, for which there is no standard chemotherapy regimen.
The decision was made in April, after two types of chemotherapy failed to stop tumor progression, to undergo an extensive and difficult surgery at MD Anderson in Houston to remove the growing, malignant GCT. This involved removal of a significant portion of his left hip and pelvis, followed by four weeks of inpatient recovery and physical therapy. Since returning home, Brian has continued physical therapy locally but still has no use of his left leg, only getting around on a walker or wheelchair since surgery.
Recently, during his 90-day follow-up in Houston, his scans unexpectedly revealed that his malignant GCT had metastasized before the surgery, and new tumors had developed in several parts of his body. He is still inpatient at MD Anderson as of this posting and will begin an aggressive radiation treatment course, followed by a third type of chemotherapy in the coming weeks. This journey means Brian and his family will be facing not only the continued emotional and physical toll of the disease, but also the financial strain of medical bills, missing work, frequent last-minute flights, and many other related day-to-day expenses.
Brian is simply one of the best people that my husband, Jay, and I know. Jay and Brian and their families have known each other since they were born, and Brian has been an incredible friend to both of us, always there when we needed him. Now, as he faces this challenge, he needs support more than ever, even though he would never ask for it himself. This ordeal has and continues to necessitate significant time off from work. The funds raised will go directly toward Brian’s treatment, household bills, groceries, travel expenses, and supporting his daughter during this difficult time.
If you are able, please consider supporting Brian and his family. Your generosity will make a real difference in their lives as they navigate this tough road ahead. Please keep Brian and his family in your thoughts and prayers.