Help an Austin Comedian & Loving Dad Fight a Rare Condition

“You never know how strong you are until being strong is your only choice.” – Bob Marley

Hi, my name is April, and I’ve been married to my incredible husband, Chad, for 25 years. Together, we’ve raised two amazing kids, shared our home with beloved pets, and built a life filled with love, creativity, and humor. Chad has always been the strong, dependable one—whether making people laugh as a comedian in Austin or captivating readers with his psychological thrillers.

Now, he’s in the fight of his life.

Chad’s Medical Story

In early January 2024, Chad suffered a very rare spontaneous arterial rupture at the celiac trunk with splenic infarction—a rare and life-threatening condition. His spleen began dying, causing severe pain, rapid weight loss, and the inability to eat solid foods. Since then, he has been in and out of hospitals, transferred between facilities, rushed in ambulances, and undergone countless tests and procedures.

Chad, being Chad, turned this into comedy—because of course he did. Watch him talk about his medical emergency on stage, back in early January:

Unfortunately, his condition worsened. In late January 2024, he developed an abscess in his spleen, leading to emergency surgery and another hospitalization.

Now, as of February 7th, things have become even more critical.

A new CT scan revealed that the infection has spread to his liver and pancreas.

His lungs are now filled with fluid, making breathing even harder.

He remains hospitalized, in constant pain, fighting every day to survive.

This has shattered our world. His two kids and I are devastated. Chad has always been in great health, aside from asthma, and now he’s facing the battle of his life.

DONATOR'S SPECIAL (Starting 02/04/2024)

To show our appreciation, we’re offering special thank-you gifts for donations:

$10 – Bookmark or stickers from Chad’s book

$50+ – Autographed copy of RoomMate

$60+ – Chad will write a joke/roast of you, posted on Facebook

$100+ – Become a character in his next novel, DayDreamer

Why We Need Your Help

On top of these terrifying medical challenges, we are struggling to stay afloat.

I rely on rideshare services for hospital visits since our only car needs urgent repairs to be safe for Chad’s medical appointments.

With Chad out of work, bills are stacking up, and rent and utilities are due.

Chad still needs ongoing medical care, medications, and nutritional support.

We’re struggling with basic necessities, including groceries and daily expenses.

We are beyond grateful for the love and support we’ve already received from friends, family, strangers, and the Austin comedy community. Every donation, every message, and every share reminds us that we’re not alone in this.

Here's Chad's plea from the hospital, made in late January during his second hospitlization:

If you can help in any way—by donating, sharing, or simply sending some love—it means the world to us.

Donate or share to help Chad keep fighting.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.