Wayne and Tonya Fight Wayne's Cancer

Tonya and Wayne Hayes have been married for 29 years. They live in Lincoln County, Tennessee, in a house that they have rented for the last five years. They do not have any children.

In 2016 Wayne was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor and was advised to cease working and focus on his health. Since that time his tumor has not grown and he has enjoyed supporting Tonya’s career. Tonya has worked as a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) for thirteen years in a nearby assisted living and rehab facility.

In July 2021 Tonya suffered a work-related injury, fracturing her

knee and requiring emergency surgery. This injury left her unable to continue working as a CNA. Her employer kept her on staff with light administrative duties until later giving her an opportunity to become a certified Med Tech. Wayne was able to take care of her through the surgery, rehab, and helped her prepare for the Med Tech Exam which she passed in November 2022.

That same month, Wayne went to see his primary care physician because of ongoing fatigue. His physician noticed elevated PSA levels and set up a consult with a Urologist. That biopsy from the consult confirmed the physician's suspicion, and Wayne was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Wayne's Gleason score advocated for removal of the prostate and nearby lymph nodes to determine its spread. This surgery has been scheduled for

March 2023 in Columbia TN as long as results from a bone scan near the end of February show no metastasis (which we are all praying for).

To say that Wayne has remained positive for the fight ahead is an understatement. His passion for making others happy and choosing joy over fear is what sets him apart from anyone I have ever met. Wayne's display of love and kindness is such an inspiration. He knows he has a battle ahead but, still his selflessness is unreal. His biggest concern isn't his outcome, but the different pressures this is putting on his wife.

Given all of this, and personally knowing how wonderful, and rare this couple is... we wanted to help out in any way we can. With no 2023 deductibles yet met, and still recovering financially from Tonya's work injury, the out-of-pocket costs are beyond their reserves. Our goal is to assist Tonya (who will remain employed) to support her husband and take the unneeded stress from Wayne, so he can focus on his cancer fight. The financial goal was set after estimating medical and personal expenses for an expected 6-8 months of recovery (with radiation follow-up not required we pray).

If you have it in your heart to assist this amazing couple, it will not go unnoticed! Wayne and Tonya are super humble, friendly people who genuinely love and accept anyone they meet. I couldn't think of a more deserving couple that could use the help of the community.