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Community Unites to Fund Life-Saving Treatment for Seattle Man Battling Cancer
In an inspiring display of compassion, friends and strangers have collectively raised over $150,000 for Matt Maclean, a Seattle resident whose insurance refuses to cover an experimental cancer treatment. This remarkable fundraising effort underscores the community’s desire to support a local fighter against stage 4 cancer, as reported by SWNS.
From Diagnosis to Hope
At 49 years old, Maclean faced a life-altering moment after being diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in October 2020. The discovery came after he noticed blood in his stool, prompting him to seek medical attention.
While in the waiting room, Maclean sensed something was amiss when his doctor paused before entering the room. It was a moment filled with dread as he and his wife Elizabeth awaited devastating news.
“When you hear the word ‘cancer,’ it brings a sense of dread, but my faith also gave me peace,” Maclean recalled, reflecting on that difficult day.
Treatment Journey
After receiving his diagnosis, Maclean embarked on an intensive treatment regimen, which included a full-body scan, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgery. His effort paid off in September 2021 when he was declared in remission, but remained under close supervision for any signs of recurrence.
However, a year later, tests indicated that his blood cancer markers began to rise. A subsequent CT scan did not reveal any tumors, but the relief was short-lived. In spring 2024, medical imaging uncovered a significant tumor in his liver, necessitating a liver resection.
“That was a low point,” Maclean stated, illustrating the emotional toll of his diagnosis at this advanced stage. “It felt worse than my original diagnosis,” he added.
Facing New Challenges
Following successful surgery to remove the tumor, subsequent tests discovered two additional tumors, leading doctors to adopt a dual approach. This new plan involved not only surgery to remove existing tumors but also localized chemotherapy.
Unfortunately, during a subsequent procedure in November 2024, three more tumors were found, prompting doctors to halt the surgery. “When I came out of that surgery, I was shocked that there was nothing done,” he expressed, noting the emotional hurdle he had to overcome. “But I realized the doctor made the right decision.”
A New Hope
Upon learning that he had five cancerous tumors, Maclean sought alternative treatments. He flew to IYA Medical in Scottsdale, Arizona, to undergo localized chemotherapy. However, the results were disheartening. In January 2025, follow-up scans revealed that the tumors remained unaffected—leading to further frustration and fear.
“At that point, I was scared,” he admitted, referring to the emotional weight he felt for his family. “My children fear losing their dad, and that breaks my heart.” He went on to share the burden his illness places on his wife, who has been his steadfast supporter throughout this journey.
An Innovative Treatment Approach
After discovering that his chemotherapy had not yielded results, Maclean learned about Verthermia, a Texas-based company that specializes in full-body hyperthermic extracorporeal applied tumor therapy, known as HEATT. This cutting-edge treatment utilizes a heart-lung machine to heat blood outside the body, aiming to shrink tumors.
Despite being FDA-approved, Maclean’s insurance provider classifies this treatment as experimental, leading to a denial of coverage. Faced with this financial obstacle, he realized he needed to raise substantial funds to proceed with the therapy.
Community Support Surges
Determined to succeed, Maclean launched a fundraising campaign. His heartwarming plea resonated with many in his community, leading to an astonishing outpouring of support. The response surpassed his expectations, turning strangers into allies in his fight against cancer.
“My kids shared the fundraising page with their friends, and the response was overwhelming,” Maclean noted, still in shock at the generosity of the people around him. “The donations go beyond just money; it’s a reflection of how good people can be.”
Looking Ahead with Optimism
With an appointment booked for his treatment at Verthermia on March 6, 2025, Maclean remains hopeful for a successful outcome. “I believe I can ultimately beat this,” he affirmed, crediting the unwavering support from his family and community as vital to his journey.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Matt Maclean’s journey through cancer showcases not only his fight for survival but also the power of community solidarity. In an age where personal struggles can often feel isolating, his story serves as a powerful reminder of hope, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of human kindness.
