Support Allan's Battle Against Rare Cancer

Team fundraiser

Barry and Toni Bethea and Brandi Prater are organizing this fundraiser on behalf of Allan Prater.

Donation protected

In 2018, Allan was diagnosed with a Solitary Plasmacytoma of the bone after his lower back pain returned a few years after spinal surgery. He underwent radiation to remove the cancer in his spine and the results looked promising.

In December 2022, markers began to increase, and the oncologist began to monitor things quarterly starting in January 2023. On January 5, 2024, we learned that the cancer had returned and progressed to Multiple Myeloma. His oncologist took Allan’s case to the Oncology Board, and he quickly started an aggressive treatment plan.

Allan has been going to Houston Methodist (Texas Medical Center) for weekly chemo treatments since January, except for Tomas’ wedding week, and received his last treatment on May 17th. His labs and Lambda Light Chains responded very well to the chemo!

The next step in the process will be a stem cell transplant. On May 16th, Allan went through another Bone Marrow Biopsy to prepare for the transplant. At this appointment, the Bone Marrow Transplant physician said that only 10% of patients respond this well to the chemo treatment, which was wonderful news. However, the next part of the treatment will be the toughest. The entire process will take the summer and post-transplant care will last through August with isolation extending through October or November.

Multiple Myeloma is a very rare form of cancer that attacks the plasma cells. There’s no known cure for multiple myeloma, but there is a possibility for prolonged remission. We’ve heard several testimonies of 18+ years in remission after receiving a bone marrow transplant, so we are confident that this is an answered prayer and Allan will be in this group.

Covering these expenses will be a bit challenging as Brandi will need to take some leave for clinic visits during the first 2-3 months after Allan is discharged. In addition, it will help with added expenses during the treatment phase which will include outpatient stays, travel expenses to/from the medical center, meals for Brandi during the 3-week hospitalization, and sterilizing services/equipment at home. Your generosity and support will directly contribute to covering expenses associated with the transplant and recovery.

Any size donation is greatly appreciated and will help with the financial strain this diagnosis presents. It will allow Allan to focus on healing and Brandi to care for him during recovery. If giving a monetary donation is not possible, please send prayers for healing and comfort for our family as we travel along this journey.