Grimes Family Cancer Fund

On January 31, the Greg Grimes family was shocked when he was diagnosed with his third cancer, Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC). This cancer occurs in 1 of 500 bone marrow transplant survivors as a result of the total body irradiation required for the transplant. Six years ago, doctors diagnosed Greg with his first OSCC and performed a partial mandibulectomy, removing his left lower jaw. A new cancer has now formed inside his left cheek. He needs immediate surgery to remove the cancer and skin grafts from his wrist and bicep will be required. Doctors will also remove the lymph nodes in his neck. He will be hospitalized for at least five days due to the complexity of the procedures. He will miss four to six weeks of work.



Former foster parents to 93 children, Greg and his wife, Rachel, are both long-time tenth grade teachers and the parents of two daughters; in the past two years, Greg and Rachel have used up almost all of their sick days due to Greg's two eye surgeries and the death of their granddaughter, Stephanie Grace. They urgently need our help to cover the $5,800 surgery co-pay, significant lost wages (before Sick Bank kicks in), meals and a hotel near the hospital. 



During his cancer battles, the Grimes have spent over $110,000 out-of-pocket pursuing the best medical care for Greg; his 2001 Seattle transplant doctors continue to be amazed at his resiliency and positive attitude. 

Any help provided during this difficult time would be greatly appreciated.