Help Aaron Padgett Kick Colon Cancer’s Butt

Aaron Padgett got a surprise party for his 40th birthday, but that paled in comparison to the surprise that came next. “Colon cancer. You have colon cancer,” the doctor said. SO YOUNG!

As those words landed like boulders on their chests, Aaron and Carly braced for the biggest challenge of their lives. His friends and loved ones felt helpless. How could they help?

Doctors discovered an 8 cm malignant tumor in the sigmoid colon that had spread to lymph nodes. He had surgery to remove it and prayed he would not have a permanent colostomy bag for the rest of his life. What came next, besides stress about the prognosis, was debilitating worries and test anxiety related to scans every 3 to 6 months and bloodwork every 3 months, not to mention the massive medical bills they would be facing, in addition to daily living expenses like rent, utilities and groceries. And there is no short-term disability payments to help.

The medical bills continue to grow:

Within 24 months from the first surgery, the tumor grew back in the same location as his first surgery. This time it was abutting his right ureter which required a urethra stent. Additionally, his treatment required 3 months of chemotherapy followed by a repeat surgery to remove and reimplant the ureter with colon resection.

Carly is working as an oncology nurse caring for other cancer patients by day and then for Aaron when she gets home. Living on one salary in today’s economy is nearly impossible for most people, even without major medical expenses. So, a group of friends and family have joined to become their support squad.

We are asking you to join us by giving any amount you can spare. No gift is too small. Every single dollar is a godsend to them and a dent in the overwhelming financial stress. No one with cancer should have to worry about money to buy food or pay bills while fighting for their very life. Let’s lift them up in prayer and surround them with support. Every dollar helps.

Both of Aaron’s grandparents had colon cancer. Because of Aaron’s young age at diagnosis and family history, IU Health made a video of his story to help others. Watch the story here:

Indiana University Video with Aaron &Carly Padgett

If you prefer to give directly to Aaron via check or cash, we can still count your gift in the campaign total. We are starting with a goal of $5,000 but hope to exceed this as time goes by and more medical expenses are incurred. Let’s give them some hope for meeting financial obligations so he can focus on his treatment. PLEASE SHARE THIS WITH YOUR NETWORK.

Thank you in advance for your consideration,

The Aaron and Carly Colon Cancer Support Squad