A heartwarming story of community support is unfolding in Seattle as friends and strangers have raised over $150,000 for Matt Maclean, a 49-year-old father battling stage four colorectal cancer. Maclean's journey began in 2020 with a devastating diagnosis. After undergoing rounds of radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery, he achieved remission in 2021. However, the cancer returned aggressively in 2024, leading to further surgeries and localized chemotherapy, which unfortunately proved ineffective.

Maclean's hope now lies in an experimental treatment called hyperthermic extracorporeal applied tumor therapy (HEATT) offered by Verthermia in Texas. This innovative approach involves heating the patient's blood outside the body using a heart-lung machine to target and shrink tumors. While the treatment has FDA approval, it's considered experimental by Maclean's insurance, leaving him with the substantial financial burden of covering the cost himself. This is where his community stepped in, demonstrating incredible generosity by rallying together to raise the necessary funds.

Maclean's story has touched countless hearts, with donations pouring in from both those who know him personally and complete strangers moved by his resilience. The outpouring of support has not only provided the financial means for the treatment but also served as a powerful reminder of the kindness and compassion within the community. Maclean expressed his profound gratitude for the overwhelming generosity, stating that it has been more impactful than the money itself. He is scheduled to begin the HEATT treatment in March 2025 and remains optimistic about his chances of recovery.

This story underscores the power of community and the importance of supporting one another during challenging times. Maclean's battle with cancer has not only been a personal struggle but a testament to the strength of human connection and the unwavering hope for a positive outcome.