Support Mitch Blanco's Fight Against Spinal Tumor

Every donation helps ease the financial burden so Mitch and his family can focus on healing and finding the best path forward.

$10,672 raised of $12,000 goal
154 donors • Medical fundraiser • Organized for Jill Blanco
Donate on GoFundMe View Full Campaign

Mitch’s Story

On Saturday, November 1st, 2025, Mitch Blanco experienced a serious fall while working at home. He hit his head and was rushed by ambulance to Centerpoint Medical Center in Kansas City, MO, where he received stitches above his eyebrow.

This incident was especially concerning because Mitch had already been struggling with stability and mobility issues. He was scheduled to see a specialist in January to investigate these symptoms further. Thankfully, the care team at Centerpoint took swift action and ordered an MRI of his head and spine.

The results were devastating: doctors discovered an ependymoma tumor wrapped around his spinal cord, extending from C1 to C4, positioned between the spine and esophagus. Due to the tumor’s size and location, any attempt to remove it could result in paralysis.

Because Centerpoint did not have the specialized resources needed for such a complex case, Mitch was life-flighted to Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis on the evening of Wednesday, November 5, where a team of experts began working to develop a treatment plan.

This sudden and serious diagnosis has turned Mitch’s life upside down. He and his family are facing mounting medical bills, travel expenses, and uncertainty about the future. We are asking for your help to support them during this incredibly difficult time.

Every donation, no matter the size, will help ease the financial burden and allow Mitch to focus on healing. If you’re unable to give, please consider sharing this campaign with others.

Thank you for your kindness, support, and prayers.

Campaign Updates

Saturday, November 8, 2025

Since being at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, Mitch has been given two options:

  • Observation — with a life expectancy of about two years. In those two years it is uncertain how his quality of life will be or whether he will continue deteriorating.
  • Surgery to remove the tumor — approximately 50% chance of success.
    • Pros: If successful, he would remain largely as he is (with a little more weakness) and have the rest of his life ahead.
    • Cons: In the worst case, he could be paraplegic from the neck down.

After much consideration, Mitch will be pursuing a third opinion to gain clarity on how to proceed. The family has reached out to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN for a third opinion and plans to head there in the coming days.

Please continue to pray for answers, clarity, and healing.

Original Post — November 2025

Mitch was life-flighted to Barnes-Jewish Hospital after the discovery of the ependymoma tumor. A specialized team began developing a treatment plan for this complex case. The family continues to face significant medical and travel costs while navigating next steps.

For the most current updates, please visit the official GoFundMe page.

How Your Support Helps

Funds help cover medical bills, travel expenses (including the trip to Mayo Clinic for a third opinion), lost income, and other costs associated with treatment and recovery. Your generosity allows Mitch and his family to focus on healing rather than financial stress.

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Campaign Organizers

C
Christa Pratt Organizer · Blue Springs, MO
M
Mary Bentley Co-organizer
J
Jill Blanco Beneficiary