Dustin Reece

Growing up in Cherokee County, Georgia, Dustin Reece faced numerous challenges throughout his childhood, each of which shaped him into the incredibly compassionate, kind-hearted, and thoughtful person he is today. His unwavering willingness to help, love, and give to others has made him a pillar of support to everyone fortunate enough to know him.

A devoted husband and father of two, Dustin’s life took an unexpected turn when he experienced his first seizure in August 2024. This was followed by three more seizures, each causing him to lose consciousness. Despite undergoing multiple tests with his primary care doctor, hospital staff, and neurologist, a clear diagnosis remained elusive for six months.

Then, on February 11, 2025, Dustin suffered a severe, 10-minute seizure in which he was unresponsive. Concerned, his neurologist ordered another MRI, which revealed five “lesions” on Dustin’s brain. Upon review, the neurologist referred Dustin to a neurosurgeon at Emory, who confirmed the lesions appeared “aggressive.” Due to the risks of surgery, only one lesion could be biopsied. The surgeon, with urgency in her voice, explained, “Once or twice a year, I am wrong and find something else in the brain. But time is of the essence, and I need you here for surgery tomorrow.”

Dustin underwent brain surgery on February 27th, uncertain of what the results might reveal. The surgeon was relieved when the initial 24-hour pathology report showed no signs of glioblastoma, as had been initially feared. However, the lesions still could be either vascular or cancerous, and further testing was necessary. The extracted tissue is currently undergoing preliminary pathology, and Dustin and his wife, Madison, remain in limbo, waiting for answers about his official diagnosis and the subsequent treatment plan.

As Dustin is unable to drive, so Madison must accompany him to all upcoming appointments, which requires her to take time off work. With their paid time off nearly exhausted, Dustin and Madison are facing the reality of medical bills. As of this writing, Dustin owes thousands of dollars for ambulatory rides and medical tests, with further costs expected for the surgery and ongoing treatment. While the exact course of treatment remains uncertain, it is anticipated that the financial burden could be significant.

The emotional toll of this rapid succession of events has left Dustin and Madison grappling with uncertainty. The whirlwind of medical bills, the quick timeline of surgery, and the looming costs of future treatments have caused understandable anxiety. Dustin, who has always loved deeply, given generously, and worked tirelessly to provide for his family, now faces a difficult time of physical and emotional strain.

Please be in prayer for Dustin and Madison, and please also plan to join us on April 22 for his Honoree Dinner.