The McNeel Family

Dear family, friends, and anyone who feels led to assist an amazing family in their unexpected time of need.

Max McNeel, son of Chris and Andrea, has suffered multiple lung collapses over the past year, beginning in July 2021. After a series of hospital stays and recurrent collapses, he was eligible for a procedure called pleurodesis, which would essentially “glue” the lungs in an expanded position to the pleural/lung cavity. Max’s left lung was operated on at OHSU in June 2022. However, only a few short months later, his lung collapsed again, and he was immediately taken back to OHSU on August 5th. A second surgery to correct the original failure was performed on August 9th. Max bravely opted to have his right lung corrected at the same time. After nearly one month at OHSU, Max’s lungs remain under the close supervision of his doctors and parents as he transitions to recovery at home.

In the midst of this already trying time, the family received further difficult and overwhelming news. Max’s dad, Chris has been diagnosed with stage IV cancer. As many know, the McNeel family has suffered exceptional tragedy and loss in the past few years. Chris’ three sisters, René, Monique, and Jenny, and most recently, his mother, Roxene, passed away from unexpected illnesses, three of which were from cancer. And so, in addition to anxiously hoping and praying for the success of Max’s recovery, the family now also faces the magnitude of Chris’ diagnosis.

For the past month, Chris and Andrea have driven countless times from OHSU to be by Max’s side, to the North Shore medical facilities in White Salmon for Chris’ appointments and procedures, and back home to The Dalles. As can be imagined, this has been physically exhausting and emotionally draining.

Chris has worked for Wasco County for the past 30+ years (currently as Assistant County Planner and formerly as Deputy Sheriff), and Andrea is an Ophthalmic Technician. Max works for Columbia Cinemas and is a full-time college student. This family has given much to their community over the years, reflecting their faith and genuine heart for serving others. Unfortunately, given the present circumstances, they have had to cut their work hours considerably, which subsequently has affected their income.

The family’s immediate need is financial help to cover medical bills for both Chris and Max, household bills, along with the additional unexpected expenses of lodging, meals, and gas for travel.

Chris, Andrea, and Max have been incredibly courageous through this difficult time. Our family’s desperate prayer is that we can at least lighten the heavy burden of expenses they are facing so that they may focus on health and healing. Chris, Andrea and Max, along with our entire family, are grateful for your love, prayers and support.

“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong” - 1 Corinthians 16:13