Many people know my father, Scott McClellen, as a pastor, a mentor, and a man of unwavering faith. But to our family, he is so much more. He is a devoted husband, a loving father, and the most incredible “Papa Scott” to his grandchildren.

For decades, my dad has poured his heart into serving others by offering prayers, guidance, and encouragement to anyone in need. He has spent his life reminding people to trust in the Lord through every season of life.

Today, he is facing one of the biggest challenges of his own life.

In October 2023, Scott was diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis: a chronic, progressive lung disease where lung tissue becomes thick, stiff, and scarred over time. This scarring makes it difficult for the lungs to function, reducing the ability to transfer oxygen into the bloodstream. The lung damage caused by pulmonary fibrosis cannot be repaired. Medications and therapies can sometimes help slow down the rate of fibrosis, ease symptoms and improve quality of life, but a lung transplant is the only known curative, life-saving option for severe, progressive pulmonary fibrosis.

After thorough evaluation and testing by his pulmonary team in Omaha in early March 2026, it was determined that Scott requires a lung transplant. He is currently in need of a life-saving lung transplant, and within the last few weeks, his condition has become more critical due to pneumonia, which has caused respiratory failure, and our family is walking through one of the hardest seasons we've ever faced.

On March 14, he was flown from his hometown of Valentine, Nebraska to North Platte, where he was hospitalized for four days. After briefly returning home, his oxygen needs became too great for the equipment available, and he began feeling significantly worse. He was then flown to Omaha, where he is currently in the ICU at the University of Nebraska Medical Center after being diagnosed with respiratory failure. He is stable, but he has a long road ahead.

This decision marks the beginning of a challenging journey that will involve significant medical care, frequent travel for appointments and procedures, and a lengthy recovery process. As our family places our trust in God's plan and prays for Scott's healing, we also reach out to our friends, family and community for support during this difficult time, knowing that the road ahead will demand strength, faith, and the help of those around us.

Those who know my dad know his heart; he has always been the first to show up for others in their time of need. Now we are humbly asking for help as we walk alongside him through this journey.

Your donations will help ease the financial burden of medical expenses, transplant-related care, and the many unexpected costs that come with this process. Just as meaningful as any donation are your prayers, encouragement, and words of support.

We truly believe that the Lord works through people, and we are so grateful for every act of kindness and generosity shown to our family.

Thank you for helping support Scott. Our dad, our hero, and our beloved Papa Scott.

With gratitude and faith,

The McClellen Family