David Carr's Brain Cancer Fund
Donation protected
This fund is for David Carr who recently suffered a life-altering seizure while working in his yard on April 3, 2016. David’s seizure was so violent that he dislocated both shoulders and broke bones in both of his arms. After an MRI, it was discovered that a brain tumor caused the seizure. A brain biopsy revealed that the tumor was glioblastoma multiforme, an aggressive form of cancer on his right temporal lobe. The first brain surgery was not a complete success and two days later, he underwent a second surgery to remove the rest of the tumor. A total of 6.5 cm was taken between the two surgeries. According to Dave, he's not a candidate for Mensa (his words, not mine), so he didn't need to worry much about what might be lost.
In addition to the brain surgeries, Dave also had to have his shoulders put back in place, numerous MRI's, CAT scans, a spinal tap and physical and occupational therapy.
After thirteen nights in the hospital, David was finally released to go home to his family. Due to the need to immobilize both of his arms, David was unable to complete everyday tasks such as feeding himself, washing or even scratching his face. After four weeks, David has begun physical therapy to increase his mobility and is now gaining more and more independence. This will continue at least twice a week as he is able to increase his mobility and build strength in his arms.
Next week, Dave will begin chemotherapy and radiation. Chemo will be given seven days a week and radiation five times per week for six weeks. After that, he will have a short break before. He continues chemotherapy on a five day on, 23 day off schedule. He will have to undergo regular MRI’s every couple of months and continue to take anti-seizure medication. He's pretty fired up about his new radiation mask, for which he was recently fitted, and is now talking of incorporating it into a Halloween costume:
David works for the Department of Children and Family Services in Spokane, Washington and his wife Kelly is a kindergarten teacher. Together they have a girl and two boys. Their daughter Riley is 14 years old and is going to be a high school freshman next year.
The boys, Aiden and Bryce, were adopted after Dave and Kelly had fostered them since they were two weeks old. They are 8 years old and will be in third grade next year.
The money raised on this site will help the family with lost wages, medical bills, medication and ongoing treatments. David is in good spirits and is optimistic about his treatment. He has a long road ahead of him as this has forever changed the lives of him and his family.
Dave and his family are grateful for the support they have received from friends, family, co-workers and the community. Things such as help with meals, transporting the kids to activities,helping Dave get to appointments and co-workers donating hundreds of hours to assist with lost work time have been incredible. They feel truly blessed for the love and support during this difficult time.
All prayers, well wishes, thoughts and donations are greatly appreciated!
Organizer and beneficiary
Kurt Zimmerman
Organizer
Cheney, WA
Kelly Carr
Beneficiary