My name is Molly Fox, and I’m organizing this fundraiser for my son, Shane Azbill — a kind, hardworking, and spirited person who’s now facing the fight of his life.
What started as weeks of unexplained back pain turned into a devastating diagnosis: Dural Arteriovenous Fistula (dAVF), a rare and serious condition involving abnormal blood vessels in the spine. Shane underwent emergency back surgery in mid-December, beginning a medical journey that no one could have prepared for.
After a lengthy hospital stay, he thankfully was able to return home just two days before Christmas. Shane was out of work over four months recovering from surgery, which included at-home physical therapy. Shane suffered nerve damage from the surgery, requiring him to use a walker and cane. He lost his ability to lift his right foot, making walking difficult. It wasn’t until he had a serious fall — crackng two ribs, cracking two teeth, and wounding his face — that he finally got a carbon fiber brace to help properly lift his foot when walking.
Just three short weeks after returning to work, Shane received some unfavorable news — that infamous “C” word no one wants to hear. The results of a biopsy from a lump found during one of the several MRIs performed during his hospital stay came back as oropharyngeal cancer (tonsil cancer).
Shane’s treatment plan includes daily radiation treatment and weekly chemotherapy treatment. Though Shane’s prognosis is good, the treatment is taking a toll on him both physically and financially. He is tolerating the chemotherapy fairly well; however, the side effects of the radiation are making it too difficult to swallow, requiring him to now use a feeding tube to get the hydration and nutrients he needs. He’s fighting fatigue and has had severe weight and muscle loss.
Though he’s trying to continue working when he can, the demanding treatment schedule and side effects have made it incredibly difficult. Because his previous medical leave was exhausted after back surgery, he is no longer receiving paid time off or other financial support — even though his recovery is far from over.
Shane has support from his family and his partner Dawn, though she too is on her own cancer journey, still undergoing treatment. As you can imagine, this household has been through a lot the last couple of years. Any support you can offer Shane — even simply sharing this link — would be so appreciated and would help lessen the financial burden, allowing him to focus on his health and getting back to the fun, outgoing Shane we all love.
