TEMPLE, Texas — A Central Texas family is sharing their story of resilience and warning signs after their 23-year-old son was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma in October.
Matthew Floyd, like many young adults, initially dismissed his symptoms.
"I'm normally one of the people that avoids doctors at all costs," he admited. "The swelling mixed with the pain - those were all symptoms of the lymphoma that I just brushed off, thinking, 'Oh, I'm working all day; my legs are swollen, of course.'"
The diagnosis came as a shock to his parents, Larry and Amber Floyd, who now want to prevent other families from experiencing similar delays in diagnosis.
"Don't ignore anything. Don't discount anything. Don't let your 23-year-old try to tell you that it's nothing," the family urges everyone.
Looking back, Amber recognized the subtle warning signs they missed.
"We look back on all the little symptoms and just took it as he was working a lot and going to the gym. We never should have put those little things off," she said.
As Matthew undergoes treatment, his family has mobilized to provide support, though he feels guilty about their efforts.
"I feel a little guilty. They're all doing a lot of work, and I can barely put my shoes on sometimes. But, you know, I appreciate them," Matthew shared.
The family faces significant financial challenges with mounting medical costs.
"Covering those costs is going to get tight," the family acknowledged.
To help with treatment expenses, they've organized fundraisers and sought community support.
The response from the Central Texas community has touched the Floyd family deeply.
"It means a lot," Matthew said. "Everybody coming in together and helping out makes it a little easier dealing with all the other stuff that goes on, and I appreciate that."
Those wishing to support Matthew's fight against Hodgkin's lymphoma can contribute through the family's GoFundMe. The Floyds emphasize that any amount of support can make a difference in Matthew's journey toward recovery.