HATTIESBURG — Friends and supporters are rallying around a Hattiesburg family after a local therapist battling brain cancer lost his wife in a flash flood tragedy over Memorial Day weekend.
A GoFundMe created for Ben Floyd has seen an outpouring of support following the death of his wife, Rachael Floyd, who organizers say was killed May 25 during a flash flood incident in Petal.
The fundraiser was originally launched after Ben Floyd was diagnosed with a high-grade astrocytoma with piloid features, an aggressive form of brain cancer located in the cerebellum. Organizers said Floyd, who is self-employed as a therapist in Hattiesburg, has been unable to work regularly while undergoing treatment.
Following Rachael Floyd’s sudden death, organizers updated the fundraiser to state that donations will now help Ben Floyd care for the couple’s three young sons while navigating both his medical battle and the loss of his wife.
Supporters described Floyd as a compassionate counselor, devoted father and active member of the community who has spent years helping others through personal crises and hardships.
The couple’s children are Joshua, 4, Gilead, 2, and Mayhew, 1, according to the fundraiser page.
Organizers said additional information about funeral arrangements for Rachael Floyd is expected to be announced later.
