Supporting Mark’s Cancer Fight

Hi, everyone.

My brother, Cody, and I are reaching out to ask for your help in supporting our dad, Mark Michaels, as he continues the fight of his life.

Our dad was first diagnosed with colon cancer in 2001. After beating it, cancer returned in 2009, and once again he faced it with strength and determination. Then, on October 14, 2022, our family received the heartbreaking news that his colon cancer had returned for a third time.

What followed has been an incredibly long and difficult journey.

On December 12, 2022, he underwent his first surgery, where we learned his cancer was Stage 4 Just one week later, severe complications required a second emergency surgery after fluid built up in his abdomen. He went home with four drainage tubes, only to be readmitted to the hospital ten days later.

On January 20, 2023, he underwent a third surgery that resulted in a wound VAC and a three-month hospital stay. During that time, he battled serious complications, including a fistula, and spent the following year relying on a PICC line and TPN (total parenteral nutrition) for nourishment.

On November 13, 2023, he underwent a fourth surgery to repair the fistula. During that procedure, doctors discovered and removed yet another area of cancer.

He was finally able to begin treatment on December 15, 2023. Since then, he has continued fighting through chemotherapy, radiation treatments, additional procedures, setbacks, countless doctor appointments, and the daily physical and emotional challenges that come with cancer. Even after everything he has endured, he continues to fight with courage, faith, and determination.

If you know our dad, you know he has never been one to ask for help.

He is a proud United States Marine Corps veteran, a devoted husband, an incredible father, and the best Papaw anyone could ask for. His four grandchildren—Callie (9), Mia (7), Colton (4), and Ryker (2)—absolutely adore him. He loves spending time with them, making memories, and being the kind of grandfather every child deserves.

Our parents, Mark and Kathy, have been married for 38 years. Through every cancer diagnosis, every surgery, every hospital stay, and every setback, our mom has never left his side. Together, they have built not only a beautiful family but also a small plumbing business they have worked tirelessly to grow. They have always believed in hard work, helping others, and doing whatever it takes to provide for their family.

Unfortunately, after nearly four years of surgeries, treatments, and recovery, our dad has been unable to return to work full-time. The medical bills, treatment costs, supplies, travel expenses, and everyday financial responsibilities continue to pile up, creating an overwhelming burden.

Our dad has spent his entire life helping others. Whether it was family, friends, neighbors, or customers, he has always been the first person to lend a hand without expecting anything in return.

Now, we’re asking for help on his behalf.

Any donation—big or small—will go directly toward medical expenses, treatment costs, medical supplies, and helping ease the financial burden on our parents as our dad continues his fight.

If you’re unable to donate, we completely understand. Your prayers, words of encouragement, and sharing this fundraiser with others mean just as much to our family.

Thank you for taking the time to read our story, for keeping our dad in your thoughts and prayers, and for supporting our family during this difficult journey.

With love and gratitude,

Cody Michaels & Kasey Rettew