As many of you know, for the past 10 years, Sam has been courageously battling kidney cancer. This past spring marked a major milestone—one year since his final surgery, and his scans showed no signs of cancer. It was a moment of relief. Sam and Ashley could finally take a deep breath and rest.

This June, Sam began experiencing symptoms of extreme fatigue, shortness of breath, and an overall sense that something wasn’t right. After numerous tests, doctors discovered a brain tumor—something that hadn’t even been on the radar. Most suspected metabolic issues, not a mass. To make matters more complicated, the tumor is located deep in the midbrain, surrounded by vital blood vessels, nerves, and against the brainstem.

By late July and into August, the tumor’s growth began impacting Sam in serious ways. He began experiencing short-term memory loss, which made everyday life increasingly difficult for both him and Ashley. The inflammation from the mass required medications that triggered additional health issues, making this already complex situation even more challenging.

After exploring multiple treatment options and consulting with a neurosurgeon, the decision was made to move forward with a craniotomy to remove the tumor. The plan was straightforward: a few days in ICU, then to a step-down unit and then home.

On September 15, Sam underwent an eight-hour surgery. Unfortunately, the procedure was more complicated than expected. The tumor turned out to be more vascular than initially believed, leading to significant bleeding. The surgeon had to make the tough call to leave part of the tumor in place due to the risk. During the procedure, Sam experienced seizures and a stroke.

This was a heartbreaking setback—but not one Sam and Ashley couldn’t face together, with Jesus leading the way. Sam remained in the ICU, starting physical therapy and building strength. There was hope again.

But on September 27, everything changed. Sam’s condition suddenly worsened. Unbeknownst to anyone, he had developed pneumonia, which led to sepsis. By Sunday morning, his condition had crashed—multiple organs began to fail. Miraculously, Sam survived. He was re-intubated and placed on numerous medications to stabilize him. Over the past week, many of those medications have been reduced or stopped, and his neurological status is slowly improving.

Still, it’s been incredibly difficult to watch how far he had come, only to be set back so significantly. Ashley has remained by his side night and day, advocating for him and being his voice with the medical team. She has truly been a force to be reckoned with.

Where Things Stand Now

Sam is still in the ICU, three weeks post-surgery. What was supposed to be a one-week hospital stay has turned into a prolonged fight with complications and many unknowns. As he begins the long road to recovery—rehab, therapy, and healing—the financial strain is growing. Hospital bills , rehab costs, and ongoing care expenses are going to add up quickly. Sam won’t be able to return to work as planned, and Ashley will need to return to work herself, all while supporting Sam's recovery.

That’s why I’m reaching out on their behalf.

Ashley’s only focus right now is getting her husband back home. She’s poured every ounce of strength into being there for him. I’m asking friends, family, and even strangers—if you feel led—to help lift the financial burden off their shoulders during this incredibly difficult time.

How You Can Help

• Donate if you can
• Share this message with others who may be willing to help
• Pray—this is the most powerful and important thing we can ask for.

We are believing for a miracle. For complete healing. For God to move in a way that leaves doctors, nurses, and everyone involved in awe. More than anything, we believe Sam is still here because God stepped in and is going to move on his behalf. 

Please Pray

We’re asking for your prayers—fervent, faith-filled prayers:

• Pray for complete, divine healing.
• Pray for peace that surpasses all understanding.
• Pray for strength for Ashley as she walks this road beside Sam.
• Pray that every person who enters that hospital room feels the presence of God.
• Pray for wisdom and discernment for the doctors, and strength for everyone involved.

Thank you for standing with Sam and Ashley. Your love, support, and prayers mean more than you’ll ever know.