A Hobe Sound couple is asking for community support as they navigate a cancer diagnosis \u2014 holding onto faith every step of the way.<\/p>\n
The story of Dave and Faren Motz began in South Florida, where the two met before moving to Maui, where they married and raised their family.<\/p>\n
“I raised all three of our kids and home schooled and we started a beautiful business. We had a wonderfulf arm where we served children,” Faren said.<\/p>\n
Hobe Sound couple leans on faith and each other as husband battles head and neck cancer<\/p>\n
Years later, the couple moved to Hobe Sound and purchased a property \u2014 but just months after settling in, Dave was diagnosed with head and neck cancer.<\/p>\n
“I was so scared cause I didn’t know what to expect,” Faren said.<\/p>\n
As the couple searched for the right healthcare in Florida, AdventHealth in Celebration provided programs and grants that became a critical resource.<\/p>\n
“It was more about the fact that we had a catastrophic situation that that’s what they’re there for. So many kind people that gave to their charity, saved my husband’s life,” Faren said.<\/p>\n
Dave underwent nearly 7 weeks of daily radiation treatments. The repeated visits to Orlando, biopsies, scans, and exams added up \u2014 costing the couple nearly $20,000 out of pocket. Their age and income kept them from qualifying for Medicare or Medicaid.<\/p>\n
“He did almost 7 weeks of radiation every single day and did his treatment. Some days were good and other days were not,” Faren said.<\/p>\n
Dave, a former firefighter, had long been the family’s provider. Now, Faren has stepped up to support them both. Doctors told Dave he has an 85% chance of recovery.<\/p>\n
“She got me through the surgery, she toughed it out drove me back and forth from Orlando. Just amazing trooper, just love her so much,” Dave said.<\/p>\n
Through it all, the couple has leaned on their faith. “It’s all been about faith,” Faren said.<\/p>\n
Their journey reflects their commitment to each other \u2014 through the hardest days and the brighter ones ahead.<\/p>\n
“I’m glad it was me and not her cause first of all to see her go through it would’ve been heartbreaking and I don’t know if I would have the strength to get through it,” Dave said.<\/p>\n
Faren said she holds onto gratitude every day. “I keep telling him all the time how glad I am he’s here,” Faren said.<\/p>\n
Faren works at Latitudes at the Jupiter Beach Resort, where those who want to show their support can stop by and visit. <\/p>\n