Many of you may know my husband, Matthew Bell. He's a local firefighter and Emergency responder for the town of Rocky Top. He's an advanced EMT for Anderson County. A member of the local American Legion and the Anderson County Rescue Squad. He does a lot for others, so it took a lot of prayer (and pride swallowing) to even reach the point of us making this. We realize that we are not going to be able to do this alone.

Matthew started suffering from migraines and visual changes a year ago. After several months of doctors visits and tests, they found an arachnoid cyst on his brain. Not just a cyst, but a cyst that is 1/4 of the size of his brain. The neurosurgeon said it was the second largest he's ever seen, and it was a miracle that he wasn't suffering from worse symptoms yet (such as seizures).

I recently gave birth to our son in January, and chose to stop working to focus on finishing my master's and raising our infant son. My husband was working part time at Anderson County EMS and Rocky Top Fire Department to make ends meet while he also went back to school full time for his premed degree. Since he is part time, we unfortunately don't qualify for any sort of temporary disability for him. When he gets home, he won't even be able to lift our son because of his physical limitations post surgery and will need someone to care for him bedside for 2 weeks.

His surgery to remove this cyst from his brain is scheduled for July 21st. His recovery time is estimated to be 6 weeks. That's 6 weeks without our primary income. We pray and trust God will provide. Whether that is through miraculous ways or through the generosity of our friends, family, and strangers.

This money is solely used to pay remaining medical bills and to keep a roof over our head, lights and water on, and food on the table for the 2 months he is unable to work. Any help and share of this fundraiser is appreciated.

We will also be opening up to a meal train for anyone who would like other ways to help us. If nothing else, please pray for us. Pray for God's favor, protection, and healing.

You can also donate directly to his venmo (and avoid any fees) at @dingerbell52, last 4 of his number is 9058.