We'll take it from here, Jonny

When Jon Santmyer was diagnosed with Stage 4 melanoma in 2017, he worried most for his loved ones—his wife Erica, their two beautiful kids, his parents, brother, in-laws, extended family, and his wide circle of friends.

He knew what the diagnosis could mean, and was generous with his time, making sure everyone in his orbit knew how much they mattered to him. He did so with regular updates, hugs, visits, phone calls, heartfelt text messages and more.

He also approached his diagnosis and his loved ones with his trademark humor, which could range from a prank call to a “you looked” gesture across a crowded room.

He has cared deeply for everyone. And he has fought hard for seven years.

Jon’s treatment has included immunotherapy, several rounds of high-dose radiation to the brain, and four high-risk brain surgeries—the most recent of which was this past February. Since then, the cancer has come back and is rapidly growing. After meeting with specialists from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center last week, he and Erica learned further treatments to eradicate the cancer are not possible. Jon has just started radiation as part of a palliative care plan to hopefully ease some of his symptoms. If approved by his medical team—and if he is strong enough to withstand it—he may also undergo chemotherapy.

Those who’ve seen Jon over the past few weeks can attest that he has faced a rapid decline. As of this writing, he is having a hard time getting around without the assistance of a walker. He is also struggling to communicate, though he’s’ still very much in there, humor and all (it’s just not so easy for him to put the words together).

Jon had to leave his job at West Herr several weeks ago, and Erica is juggling his devastating prognosis with two jobs and the care of their precious kids, Glenn and Annabelle. They’ve been supported by family, friends and West Herr. Still, finances are a concern, especially with mounting medical bills. Jon shared a few weeks ago that he didn’t feel comfortable with more fundraising—but those of us who know him would expect nothing less. He and Erica are as humble as can be. This GoFundMe, in fact, is a result of his friends’ rouge insistence.

It’s time for Jon to take it easy, and for us to take it from here.

Jon has a big network of loved ones, including many best friends from Pal-Mac High School (circa 1990s), as well as his former Shell’s and Perinton Pizza crew, his family at West Herr and more. Let’s step up, Bills Mafia style, for Jonny, Erica and the kids. If you’ve got the means, please consider making a donation here—every little bit helps. If you’re not comfortable with this platform, reach out to the organizers (Jessica Youngman or Rich Malec) for other arrangements.

If you don’t have the means, there are plenty of other ways to show your love during this hard time—pitch in with some yardwork at their place, drop a card in the mail, deliver a home-cooked meal, send up a prayer.

Jon: If by chance you’re able to read this, no fuss. We got you. We love you. We’re all better having you in our lives.