Worthen Family Project

Two of my dearest friends, Josh and Sarah Worthen have had to endure some unbelievable challenges in their lives. Josh is an Air Force veteran and a brain cancer survivor. He recently learned that his tumor is growing again and the cancer is back after eight years in remission. The growing tumor is causing seizures and a lot of pain. He goes to UCLA next week for surgery to have as much of the tumor removed as possible. Chemo will follow. If that wasn't enough, they recently had baby number five and have a nine year old daughter, Lauryn, who is physically disabled, unable to move on her own, and unable to speak. They live in a two story home in which the bathrooms and bedrooms are upstairs. Doctor's have ordered Josh to no longer carry his sweet Lauryn upstairs to be in her bedroom or to bathe.

Friends and family have rallied together this week to start the Worthen Family Project to take care of the many needs of the Worthen's. A facebook page and blog have been set up to keep friends and family near and far updated on the project, what help is needed, and ways to donate either supplies or money to the family. We have already secured building plans, permits and donated building materials/labor to build out the dining room as a new bedroom for Lauryn downstairs. This is an amazing gift to them, but more help is needed. The room outside the new bedroom will need to be painted. The ceilings are very high and it will not be an easy task for the layman to paint. There is a small bathroom downstairs, but a full bath is needed so that Lauryn can be bathed. The family's stove/oven is not working along with their garage door. That door will need to be working so building supplies can safely be stored inside. They family also is in need of a kitchen table.

Josh, up until recently had been unemployed for 18 months. About two months ago, Josh had found a great job and we all celebrated as we thought they finally will get a moment's peace free of hard times. Unfortunately, that time was brief as they soon discovered the cancer had returned. They are still recuperating financially from being unemployed. Now with Josh having to take time off from his new job to beat cancer a second time, financial challenges are sure to follow.

Yet through it all, their faith in God is unwavering, and their courage and positive attitude as they deal with this trial is inspiring. They are always laughing, smiling, and finding humor in each day. They are truly amazing and humble. I love the quote Josh's sister shared "Today's tests are tomorrow's testimonies" (who she quoted, I cannot remember). That is how they embrace these trials, as something that will strengthen their testimonies.

Josh's parents are currently serving a mission (LDS) in Louisiana. Josh and Sarah have asked that they remain where they have been called to, continue the Lord's work, and have faith in His plan for them all.

We are trying to get as many of their needs met as possible. We would also like to do some special things for their children to comfort them while their parents are away for the surgery. The needs are great and the task to meet those needs will be a challenge.

Many friends and family have created a facebook page and a blog to keep everybody up to date on their needs. There is information on how to donate money, time, or materials to the project on the blog.

Below are the links to the facebook page and the blog.They were recently set up so we are still working out the kinks. If you are inspired to help, please check them out.

Facebook page

Family blog they tried to start up, but we hijacked it ;0)