ENUMCLAW, Wash. -- Families deal with hardships but one in Enumclaw has had more than their fair share. Now the community is wrapping its arms around the family helping them keep their head above water.
In June, weighing in at less than two pounds, nurses didn't think Lincoln Nachtsheim would make it through the night.
“His ear was basically the size of my pinky nail,” said his mom, Melissa Nachtsheim.
His 12-year-old brother Taylor says he was scared.
Lincoln fought to survive and after 55 days in the hospital he finally made it home. Melissa says they felt so lucky.
“He brings so much joy into our lives," said Melissa.
Just three months later, it was mom who had a stay in the hospital.
“I feel like I'm telling someone else's life story but I'm reminded every time I get up,” said Melissa.
That’s because she’s in so much pain. Melissa has been diagnosed with a rare form of blood cancer. She’s had so many medical issues these past few months, she's already lost her gallbladder and fears her liver will be next.
The family’s problems don’t end there. Just last week, Melissa’s husband, Martin was in a serious car accident. She was sitting in the emergency room because she was sick again and saw her husband’s work truck on the news and said she knew instantly it was his.
While she was in the hospital she learned her husband was in a separate hospital with a broken leg and back. At only 12-years-old, their son, Taylor, says it’s been hard. What scares him the most is that he believes things are only going to get worse.
Melissa says she wouldn’t wish what they’ve been through on anyone.
“Noone should have to go through these things, let alone in a seven month period,” said Melissa.
However, she says Lincoln was the first of the family to demonstrate what fighters they are and has no doubt they will make it through this.
In the meantime, the community of Enumclaw is stepping in to help pay bills. With Martin in the hospital and off his feet for months and Melissa being too sick to work, they realize they need the help.
The community is hosting a silent auction at Enumclaw High School on March 17th from 5 -8 p.m. to help with medical bills. For more information, visit the family’s facebook page.
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