Arizona Couple Raises Funds for Cancer Care

Kelly and Brad Blake are moving back to Arizona to access specialized cancer treatment in Scottsdale.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Cancer

Gouache-painted illustration of a desert succulent in a ceramic pot on a windowsill, evoking a theme of personal health and transition.
Kelly and Brad Blake have raised $46,000 to cover specialized cancer treatment costs as they relocate from Colorado to Scottsdale, Arizona. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Kelly and Brad Blake have raised $46,000 via a GoFundMe page to cover cancer treatment costs. Kelly, who was diagnosed with clear cell carcinoma in 2025, requires specialized care not covered by insurance.

Why it matters

The couple is relocating from Colorado back to Arizona to utilize a specialized care center in Scottsdale. Insurance coverage gaps for specialized procedures have forced them to solicit private donations after exhausting their personal savings.

The couple completed three rounds of treatment in Colorado before seeking additional options in Scottsdale. The fundraising effort secured $46,000 in under one week to help bridge the gap toward the $150,000 projected cost.

The players

Kelly Blake

She is a patient who was diagnosed with clear cell carcinoma in 2025.

Brad Blake

He is the husband of Kelly Blake and is currently coordinating their relocation and fundraising efforts.

The details

After receiving a clear cell carcinoma diagnosis, the couple relocated to Colorado for initial treatment and completed three rounds of therapy. They are now moving back to their home state to seek further care, having previously exhausted their savings on medical expenses.

Timeline

  1. 2019: Kelly and Brad Blake rescued their donkey, Walter.

  2. 2025: Kelly Blake received a diagnosis of clear cell carcinoma.

  3. October 2026: The couple raised $46,000 in less than one week.

Health Landscape

This move highlights the growing reliance on community crowdfunding to address the rising costs of specialized oncology care in the United States. It underscores the financial challenges families face when insurance networks do not cover advanced treatment centers.

Patients and families facing similar coverage gaps may consider specialized medical centers, though out-of-pocket costs remain a significant hurdle. Evaluating insurance policy limitations regarding specialized cancer facilities is a critical step in managing long-term treatment.

The takeaway

Financial planning for unexpected medical emergencies is essential when dealing with complex, specialized treatment requirements. Families can utilize online platforms to bridge funding gaps, but these resources should be viewed as a secondary safety net.

Further reading

Learn more about local oncological resources at the Scottsdale Cancer section.