Help Gerard and Haru Overcome Cancer

Dear friends, family, and music community,

I'm reaching out on behalf of Gerard, a talented luthier and a cherished member of our music family. Gerard has been an invaluable part of our lives, dedicating decades to the art of instrument repair.

Unfortunately, Gerard's journey has taken an unexpected and challenging turn. In October 2022, he was diagnosed with advanced metastatic renal clear-cell carcinoma, kidney cancer - a battle he has been bravely fighting all while fixing our basses, cellos, and guitars.

Gerard has endured multiple rounds of treatment, including a recent start with an RTK inhibitor called Sunitinib. This new treatment shows promise but comes with severe side effects, including a rapid build-up of abdominal fluid, exhaustion, weakened immunity, and hypertension. These complications have not only taken a toll on his health but have also forced him to put his lifelong passion for instrument repair on hold.

Adding to his challenges, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has frozen Gerard's Vancity Credit Union account, leaving him unable to pay rent and bills. With a debt of $8,500 looming over him, Gerard is facing eviction, leaving him and his son Haru without a place to call home.

Gerard has always been hesitant to ask for help, but his circumstances now leave him with no choice. Considering all Gerard has done for the music community in Vancouver, let’s rally to support our friend and colleague.

How You Can Help:

We're launching this GoFundMe campaign to support Gerard during this critical time. Your contributions will go towards paying off the CRA debt, unfreezing his bank account, and securing a stable living situation for Gerard and Haru. This will enable Gerard to focus on his health, continue his passion for instrument repair, and provide for his son.

Your support, whether big or small, will make a lasting impact on Gerard's journey to recovery. Let's come together to help our dear friend and ensure he doesn't face this battle alone.

Thank you for your generosity and compassion, and for being a part of Gerard's support network.

With gratitude,

Jesse