John Wiggins fight against stage 4 throat cancer

Hi everyone! My name is Taylor and I am starting this fundraiser campaign to support my parents as my dad, John Wiggins, continues to battle HPV 16+ throat cancer. This particular throat cancer is from the HPV virus rather than smoking. My dad was diagnosed in January 2023 with late-stage p16+ squamous cell carcinoma of the left oropharynx. He had been feeling ill and in excruciating pain since March 2022 and after numerous doctor appointments, antibiotics, and steroid packs, a CT scan was finally ordered and completed in December 2022 showing a 17 mm cancer tumor involving his tonsils, larynx, pharynx, thyroid gland, carotid artery, and bilateral lymph nodes.

My dad is one of the hardest working and selfless men I know. He is a “yes” man and is always willing to provide a helping hand to friends, family, and even strangers when needed. Prior to his cancer diagnosis, he worked overtime on a weekly basis to provide for himself and my mom as she is physically unable to work due to a debilitating back injury years ago.

My dad began weekly chemotherapy and the start of 37 radiation treatments in March 2023. Following a long brutal treatment, he was fortunate enough to ring the bell marking the end of radiation however has suffered immensely throughout the entire process and still has a long road of recovery ahead. Since April 1, 2023, he has had many setbacks including 9 lengthy hospital admissions for complications secondary to treatment such as sepsis, respiratory distress resulting in a tracheostomy placement, pulmonary embolism, g-tube placement due to malnutrition as he is unable to eat and drink, aspirating pneumonia twice, and re-occurring infections due to a weakened immune system.

His hope was to be recovered and able to return to work before August, however he continues to experience extreme oral and throat pain, overall weakness, and reliance on g-tube feedings that would impact his ability to return to work at this time as a millwright.

My dad is now experiencing chronic severe headaches, nasal congestion, sinus pressure, dry mouth, and continuous ringing in his ears. He just feels unwell daily with unanswered solutions by his care team. He continues weekly treatments for lymphedema in his neck and face as well as swallowing therapy.

As you can imagine, their monthly expenses and thousands in medical bills have become overwhelming and I want to help relieve that burden. If you’re willing and able to provide support whether that be a donation, a prayer, or words of encouragement, we would be so grateful.

My parents faith and determination is strong but as you can imagine some days are harder than others. Check back on this page for updates on his progress. Again, thank you so much for your support.