Zach Combs-Christenson Stage IV Cancer Support

Zach is a young, fun-loving, family man who recently received a shocking diagnosis of stage IV cancer. He is married to Tarra and they have three wonderful children - Owen (8), Sloane (3), and Ryland (3). They currently reside in southeast Wisconsin.

Zach had back pain for several months beginning around October 2021. He began seeing a chiropractor and after adjustments and some management his pain was not improving. He saw his primary in early January after experiencing some weight loss. His labs showed some areas of concern and we saw hematology/oncology. The biggest concern was his hemoglobin (it was 5 and dropping) and should be around 11.

He had a CT on 1/28/2022 (his 35th birthday) and they found a large mass in his colon. They also found several spots on his liver. He was admitted to the hospital from 1/31/22-2/4/22 and received 4 units of blood, a liver biopsy, and colonoscopy. He was diagnosed with stage iv metastatic colorectal cancer (with multiple liver mets). He received a chest port prior to discharge on 2/4/22.

On 2/7/22 he began his first round of chemotherapy. They are being aggressive and gave him about 25% above the typical dose. He tolerated that very well with no new symptoms. Within the past few days, with better medications, his pain level has been quite a bit better. As I type this, he is beginning round 2 of chemotherapy. His hemoglobin has been staying above 7, the level needed to continue therapies without needing additional blood transfusions.

During this time Zach and his family would be grateful for your support. While they remain hopeful for the best outcome, the diagnosis and treatments have taken a toll on Zach and the family physically, emotionally, and mentally. They are also facing large out-of-pocket medical bills which is financially overwhelming. Unfortunately due to the majority of individuals with this diagnosis being much older, many of Zach’s treatments are not considered standard of care and therefore not covered by insurance (being young doesn’t always come with perks it turns out). As of now they are estimating $10,000 will be out-of-pocket cost, so any help to alleviate the stress and financial burden they are facing would be greatly appreciated.

If you know Zach & Tarra, chances are you have experienced their abundant generosity. Please consider showering them with the same generosity they have graciously given to others over the years. If there are any funds they don’t need for Zach’s medical expenses they will pass them along to another family with unexpected medical expenses and/or donate to cancer research.

Thank you so much for your support!

P.S. Cancer sucks.