The Stallins Family is no stranger to battling cancer. In 2011, Justin and Brianna were working hard to save up enough money to have the wedding of their dreams. Those dreams were cut short in the Spring of 2012, when Justin was diagnosed with Testicular Cancer. He underwent his first surgery in April and continued his treatment with Chemotherapy for the two months after. They had been lucky enough this first time to have the extra funds that had been set aside for their wedding to make up for the expenses of treatment, in addition to overwhelming support from Justin’s parents. They were wed after the first surgery in a small ceremony with only a couple friends and family present. The Chemotherapy worked wonders in controlling the progression of the Testicular Cancer. He continued to be monitored for the months after in case of any additional progression. In January of 2013, Justin had to go the Mofitt Cancer Center in Tampa to undergo a more substantial surgery to remove the lymph nodes in his abdomen that were enlarged and of concern to his Oncologist. This major surgery had a difficult and painful six-week recovery. However, after this hurdle, it seemed as if Justin’s fight with cancer was over. The family was so relieved that he was in good health and could live a normal life with his wife and young daughter.

This relief was very short lived. In June 2015, Justin began to notice that his tonsils had become very swollen and painful. Upon consultation of a Specialist, it was recommended that he have a tonsillectomy. The doctor had remarked that Justin’s tonsils were the largest he had removed in his 35 year career. During Justin’s recovery from the surgery, he had begun to heal but then began to feel drastically worse. He contacted the Specialist for an early post-operative check-up. At his visit, the doctor read the pathology report for the removed tonsils. It indicated that Justin was now being diagnosed with T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Justin’s Oncologist was contacted during this visit and recommended that treatment should be started as soon as possible. This more rare type of cancer is extremely aggressive and can be fatal in a matter of weeks. Justin’s whole family was completely floored by this diagnosis and information.

Justin was sent to Lee Memorial Hospital only days after being diagnosed so he could begin Chemotherapy. This cancer is not only serious, it is also painful and the effects of the Chemo are extremely uncomfortable.

To date, Justin has completed four cycles of his estimated eight cycle treatment plan. He receives his treatment by staying in the hospital for about a week out of every month. Due to the extensive treatment and side effects, he has been unable to work, relying on his wife and family to help with the household and medical expenses. lt was only during his most recent visit to the Moffit Cancer Center in Tampa that they realized that the medical and living expenses may be too difficult to handle on their own.

Justin was notified that he would have to undergo a Bone Marrow Transplant, possibly within a few months. At this time, Justin will still be given Chemo treatments in the hospital until a donor match is located.

When this transplant takes place, Justin will have to live in Tampa for an estimated four months. During this time, he will require a care taker for around the clock monitoring. This family will need a lot of help and support for this upcoming struggle.

They are trying to raise money to cover the living expenses for his family so his wife is able to care for him during this time. Any help and support they receive are greatly appreciated. Come help us fight because no one fights alone!

Please come to the Justin Stallings Drawing for a Cure in the Winn Dixie parking lot Saturday, October 24, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Rib and chicken plates.

LaBelle’s local businesses have come together to fight cancer with Justin. Businesses have donated their time, services, and merchandise.

Now, is the time for you to do your part, enter into the drawing for a chance to win! Purchase your tickets at Big Iron Bar-Bell and World Class Barbershop! Products will be sponsored by: World Class Barbershop, Harold P. Curtis Honey Store, Bridge Street Coffee & Tea, Vapin’ It Up, Sissi’s Studio, LaBelle Nails & Spa, Rick’s Barbershop, Southern Comfort, Nathan’s Barbershop, Log Cabin BBQ, All Dolled Up, Derek’s Detailing, Townsend & Sons Everglades Outfitters, Everglades Farm Equipment, Bass Pro, Longhorns Steakhouse, New York Pizza, Origami Owl, Captain Quick Lube, Two Peas Café, Forrey’s Grill, Pilot, Parrish Family Chiropractic, Joey’s Girls, Sal Cals, Glam Artistry, Diamond R Fertlizer and more to come.