Tom LaVigne's Medical Expenses

Hi everyone,

I am writing this request on behalf of my mother, Anne, and father, Tom LaVigne. My father has had an impactful presence in many people’s lives as a pastor, colleague, teacher, family member, and beloved friend. He has a brilliant mind, a contagious laugh, and most importantly, has a heart of gold. He has always shown up to serve others graciously and enjoys when he is able to help someone else. He is about to begin a transplant journey that is both expensive and stressful for both my parents. I will explain both his journey and what the next steps for his transplant journey will look like.

My father was diagnosed with CMML (Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia) in January 2016. This is a rare type of leukemia that begins in the bone marrow and invades the blood stream. My dad has been on chemotherapy and tried various treatments for this cancer for several years now and his doctors have decided that the next step for him is a stem cell transplant. Thankfully, a donor has been found for him and this procedure can positively impact his future health.

He is scheduled to travel to Seattle on November 28th, 2022 to begin preparation for his transplant. During this process, he will be in the hospital completing various tests until he has his transplant procedure on December 28th, 2022. While this procedure is expensive, the costs for his care significantly increase in the coming months following his procedure.

After his transplant, he will be required to meet daily with his team of doctors at the Fred Hutch Cancer Center in Seattle until April 2023. Unfortunately, this will require him to temporarily relocate to Seattle and the housing, food costs, and travel to/from Wenatchee for my mom and Noah will be out of pocket costs for my parents. My mother has taken on the scheduling of several friends and family that will be staying with my dad in various increments of time since he cannot be alone during this time. During weekends and breaks from school, my mom and Noah will be caring for my dad. While we are immensely grateful to the Fred Hutch Cancer Center, these costs add an additional burden for my family during a time where concern is already paramount for my dads health.

We are asking the public, friends, and family if they are able to contribute in any way. This donation fund is set up to a designated account that goes directly to my mom and dad. Anyone that is able to donate, my family is very grateful and we appreciate your generosity and friendship. If you are not able to donate, we are equally as grateful for your prayers and support. Thank you!

With love,

Emily, Laurie, Jesse, and Noah