Support Charles in Fighting Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

On August 3rd, 2024, Charles and Toni embarked on a heartfelt road trip to help move their grandson into college—a milestone they were excited to share. The trip took them through Memphis, Nashville, Eureka Springs, and Fayetteville, Arkansas, where they spent cherished moments making memories. They returned home on August 11th, tired but happy after a whirlwind of joy and family connection.

Before the trip, both Charles and Toni had been feeling unwell. While Toni recovered quickly, Charles was left with a lingering cough. He had visited several doctors, but answers were elusive, and otherwise, he felt well enough to enjoy the journey. However, after returning, Charles' condition began to worsen.

On August 29th, at his yearly check-up, his cough had progressed to the point that he could barely speak or catch his breath. Toni accompanied him to his doctor, who ordered lab work and a CT scan. Unfortunately, delays in test results due to the holiday weekend meant answers didn’t come fast enough. Two days later, Charles had grown so weak and unwell that Toni rushed him to the Emergency Room at Presbyterian Hospital in Rockwall.

At the ER, an array of tests revealed alarming results—Charles' blood was dangerously low in white and red blood cells, as well as platelets. Doctors suspected leukemia and admitted him immediately. He was transported by ambulance to Medical City Hospital in Dallas on September 4th, where a bone marrow biopsy the following day confirmed the devastating diagnosis of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML).

AML is a fast-moving, aggressive cancer that requires immediate treatment. Charles began chemotherapy the next day, spending 4 weeks in the hospital.

Since that time, Charles has endured:

• 3 rounds of chemotherapy

• Many hospital stays

• ~20 blood transfusions

• 2x per week doctor’s appointments (which take several hours each)

• A weight loss of 30+ pounds

Now at home, Charles is continuing chemotherapy, while awaiting a life-saving bone marrow transplant—a procedure that has already been postponed twice due to donor complications. The transplant carries significant risks and will require a long hospital stay followed by at least two months of strict quarantine for both Charles and Toni.

Charles and Toni are facing this journey with courage and hope, but the medical bills, time away from work, and travel expenses have created an overwhelming financial burden. They need our support more than ever as they navigate this difficult road ahead.

We’re asking for your help to ease their financial strain and allow them to focus on what truly matters—Charles’ recovery and health. Donations will go toward:

• Medical expenses and treatments not covered by insurance

• Travel and lodging costs for upcoming hospital stays

• Everyday living expenses during Charles’ recovery

Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a difference and mean the world to Charles and Toni. If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this campaign or keeping them in your thoughts and prayers.

Thank you for supporting Charles and Toni during this challenging time. Together, we can help them fight this battle and move toward brighter days.