Brett’s medical expenses

In May of 2021 Brett was diagnosed with Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the lower lip caused by the sun. There were clean (cancer free) margins during a MOHS procedure to resect six layers of the lip, including muscle and nerve. Brett was told that they got it all and there was no need to worry…

In Late August 2021 he had a terrible tooth ache, spent two weeks seeking dental treatment where the consensus was: this is not tooth related.

A series of events led to a biopsy on Sept 2 where their worst fears were confirmed. The same cancer that was in his lip was found in the “mental nerve” which runs from the lip straight to the brain via a canal in the jaw, and it had metastasized.

On Sept 13 the final results and scans had come back and his wife, Heather Catron went to work making phone calls and appointments. She found cutting edge surgeons and a world class oncology team at UCSD but was told it would be several weeks before we could be seen for an in initial consult. This didn’t work for Heather who’s determination and resilience has been an inspiration to us all. She didn’t take no for an answer and got to work. A few hours later she was able to reach the surgeon on his personal cell phone and he wanted to see Brett the same day.

The next 6 weeks were made up of a series of doctor visits, specialists, treatment planning, and exceptional efforts by the entire UCSD oncology team as well as their closest family and friends; culminating in a 10 hour surgery with 4 of the top rated surgeons in their field. On Oct 29 dental implant posts were embedded into the fibula bone while half of his bottom jaw was extracted along with corresponding nerves, tissue and blood vessels. His fibula was then resected from the knee to the ankle so they had the best chance of harvesting a suitable replacement of the jaw. Bone, nerves, tissue and blood vessels from his leg were used to recreate his jaw and gum tissue. Calf muscles were moved to Brett’s face and neck to protect the metal plates during upcoming treatment. After a 6 day hospitalization he was headed home with only 6 weeks to prepare for simultaneous chemotherapy and radiation.

As this is written Brett has successfully pushed through 6 weeks of chemotherapy and has 7 radiation treatments remaining of his original 30. Although he has been through a lot, he still hasn’t reached the end of the journey. Another surgery will take place in a few months to complete the restructuring of his jaw line and shape the new gum tissue as well as finalizing the placement of prosthetic teeth. Physical therapy work to regain strength and mobility without a fibula and a series of follow ups and testing with the oncology team will also ensue.

UCSD has restored Brett’s health by using technologies and procedures that are advanced, cutting edge and not entirely covered by insurance. That’s why we’ve created this fund for him.