Help Dave Beat Cancer

Most people who know my brother know that he "has cancer", but not much more detail beyond that. In fact, many new people that meet David are surprised to learn of his diagnosis, because he never complains and has managed to live a fairly normal life. David was diagnosed with thyroid cancer resulting from MEN 2B, a very rare disorder (the annual incidence has been estimated at 4 per 100 million per year), at the young age of 15, and has been quietly fighting it ever since. As the cancer has spread to different areas in his body, he has risen to meet the new challenges presented by this terrible disease, going through several surgeries, multiple bouts of chemo, radiation, and the countless medications that are required to maintain his health and manage his often-debilitating pain. As difficult as it has been to go through this while transitioning into adulthood, it has not held him back or crushed his spirits. David has never stopped believing in himself and has continued to push forward in life.

Now 31 years old, he has managed to achieve an associates degree, hold down a full-time salaried position at Electric Boat (where he began in a physically-demanding shipyard job working third shift), and even recently purchase his own home. David also continues to enjoy restoring cars on the side as a hobby, when he feels well enough. He loves nothing more than spending time in his home with his two dogs, Violet and Beanie. What many of us consider to be a normal life, David considers an incredible gift. He has accomplished so much while dealing with more than most people can even imagine, and he has done it with grace and gratitude. It is my personal belief that his positive outlook has helped better equip his body to fight this disease. The support of his family and friends has undoubtedly contributed to that. 

David landed in the ICU a few weeks ago after a fall in his home caused him to experience unrelenting back pain. While there, MRI's showed that his cancer has made an aggressive return. Tumors riddle his lungs, liver, sacrum, spine and lymph nodes. The pain previously attributed to the fall has not subsided. Right now, it's a struggle to manage the pain. David is currently house-bound and working with a handful of doctors to manage the pain and combat the newly discovered cancer. The sense of normalcy that going to a full-time job has given David's life is no longer afforded to him. Over the next few months, David plans to go through radiation and oral chemo to help alleviate the pain and inhibit the cancer's growth. David maintains an extraordinarily positive attitude that these treatments will be successful. As his sister, I've never believed in anything more than I believe in him right now. 

I'm asking that anyone reading this please show my amazing brother your support. Financial contributions will help him keep up with his ever-mounting medical expenses, trips to the hospital and living expenses. David is extremely conscientious, and the last thing we want is to have financial worries degrade his already-fragile health. Every little bit, even a $5 donation, means a lot. We understand not everyone is in a position to help financially. Prayers, cards, visits or a homemade meal mean just as much. If you wish to contribute in another way, please email me and I will give you David's contact information (for privacy reasons, I am not sharing online since these campaigns are public).

For all the inspiration David has given us, let's give something back. My family and I are profoundly grateful for your support.