Lisa Helmers Cancer Battle

What started as a routine follow-up for Lisa, has instead turned their world upside down.
A sudden and unexpected discovery - Lisa has a non-operable high-grade glioblastoma –
an aggressive, incurable type of brain cancer.

While they have never asked for help, it's clear they need us now more than ever. From medical expenses to daily necessities, the burdens are mounting. But with love, prayers, and generosity, we can help lighten their load.

The Journey – as shared by Billy - Love on your family and friends every chance you can.

It all started on November 14th, 2023 when Hagen and I, from our living room, heard her cry out in pain, "help", from our bedroom. When I got to her, she was on her hands and knees, and was very confused at what had happened. The only explanation we could come up with was that she must have slipped and fell, and in doing so, hit her head and lost consciousness. It was due to this accident that she had an MRI conducted for her brain as part of standard concussion protocol.

Interestingly enough, I too needed an MRI for my shoulder and somehow, we both were scheduled for MRI's the same day at approximately the same time on Friday, March 8th, 2024. We joked that we were at the age where couples had MRI dates instead of dinner dates.
It was fun.
In less than 24 hours they called her back and informed her that they saw a mass in her brain, and scheduled another MRI, this time, with contrast. Fun time was over. The results confirmed the presence of a tumor that would require a biopsy. At that time, we were under the impression that while it was a tumor it wasn't that bad and we would pray it was benign.
Apparently, a tumor in the brain is rarely considered benign…

Since that moment things seem to have progressed at light speed and seem surreal. I had shoulder surgery on March 25th and the following week on April 2^nd, Lisa had her biopsy. The initial results were that it appeared to be a low-grade glioma but before confirming their findings, additional genetic sequencing needed to be completed which would take 7-10 days. No matter the final findings, our treatment plan would be the same. 6 weeks of chemo and radiation.

During the first week of therapy on May 1st, we were informed that the final pathology report had come out and the tumor had been reclassified as a high-grade glioblastoma that is inoperable due to location and un-curable due to the type of cancer.

The only good news is: "they can't give us any worse news", and it is not hereditary, so our children are not at any higher risk of it, as they are to winning the lottery.

The doctors have said it is simply bad luck and that Lisa did nothing to get it. I could have told them that...after all she has always lived a healthy lifestyle, she doesn't smoke, only drinks on special occasions, and eats clean. To top it off she is a Navy SEAL wife that has made it through 33 years of marriage with some pretty tough times. Most of them due to my dumbass but either way, we made it!

And we are not done "making it".
We will fight as hard as it takes to burn this thing to the ground.

We will complete chemo on June 11th. After that we will wait for 4 weeks until Lisa goes back into the tube so the doctors can determine the effectiveness of the treatment. From there we will have to see…

Love on your family and friends every chance you can.
- Billy Helmers

Billy and Lisa's love story is one of rare beauty—a love that blossomed at a young age and grew stronger with each passing year. From their days in the Navy and travels with the SEAL Teams, to raising their children, Paige, and Hagen. Paige is attending UC Santa Cruz and travels home often while Hagen is still finding his way and will need the assistance of mom and dad for the remainder of is life. The family is loving and genuinely cares for one another. This event, although unexpected, has only strengthened the love that they all share… but they need our support.

Lisa's strength has always been her defining characteristic—a beacon of hope, a pillar of support, and a source of wisdom for all who know her. Despite the challenges she faces, her optimism never wavers, and she continues to live life to the fullest.

Let us be inspired by the resilience of Lisa and Billy Helmers. Let us rally around them with open hearts and outstretched hands, knowing that together, we can make a difference. In the midst of darkness, let our love be the light that guides them through.

Thank you for your kindness, your prayers, and your support. God Bless!

The Navy SEALs Fund - Brotherhood Beyond Battlefield is honored to be partnered with Billy and Lisa in this battle.

100% of all donations from this campaign will be donated directly to Billy and Lisa.

All donations are tax-deductible.

Donations can also be mailed to:
Navy SEALs Fund
Attn: Helmers Cancer Support
PO Box 89
Mason OH 45040

Please send any questions to info@navysealsfund.org