DJ Drew's HPV Cancer Recovery

Our friend DJ Drew Harlander has an HPV cancer tumor at the base of his tongue for the second time in four years, and this time it’s requiring radiation and other treatments as constant pain and numbness make it impossible for him to earn a living.  He needs our help.

Four years ago, Drew was diagnosed with an HPV cancer tumor from the right base of his tongue by the Mayo Clinic Rochester MN, where he immediately had corrective surgery.  It temporarily interrupted his ability to work professionally as an actor, voice talent and stage performer just long enough for the pandemic to eliminate his full-time position at CBS/Entercom Los Angeles in 2020.  His health stayed solid through early 2022, with no major setbacks even as employment opportunities were scarce.

Now that the pandemic is fading, DJ Drew Harlander has a new challenge: His HPV Tumor is back now under his tongue, and this time his semi-numb but the extremely painful tongue has been preventing him from speaking or singing clearly enough to work professionally.  Two months of radiation treatments before the end of 2022 has made a difference, but he needs further treatments and a long-term health recovery regimen that he doesn’t have the funds on his own to continue right now, as out-of-pocket expenses are skyrocketing.

Drew has a family of friends from Seattle, San Diego and Los Angeles to Manhattan, Jersey and Philly.  He’s contributed to circles of musicians, actors, club scenes and radio stations for over four decades of adult life, and would like to continue making heartfelt contributions to the communities he’s been honored to be a part of.  But he needs our help to do that.

This Go Fund Me page will help Drew with the costs of healing and the costs of living until he’s able to gainfully work again.  Any donation big or small would be appreciated.  Drew’s Venmo is @djdrewling and the last four of his phone number is 9177 if you prefer to donate without the fees.

This cancer can be as deadly as any other, and we hope for Drew the chance to live and thrive for as long as his healing will allow.  He’s given so much to so many in music and performance for so long.  This is our chance to give back during his time of need.

HPV is common.  Get tested today for free:

https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/stds-hiv-safer-sex/hpv/should-i-get-tested-hpv

We know that times are tough for everyone right now, but if you can contribute, please know that your generosity would be greatly appreciated. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this page with your friends and family.