Supporting Gary as He Battles Cancer

Dear Gary,

This GoFundMe is being set up to ease life’s burdens. This is especially important as your energy and strength will need to be spent on enjoying each day. Holding true to your poignant words, “yesterday is gone, tomorrow is definitely not guaranteed, so try and enjoy each moment.” Your community: your family and friends, are gathering to support you through this devastating diagnosis and journey.

Regardless of how much time has passed since we’ve chatted or laughed– the impression and imprint you have made is raising to the occasion to be here for you!

For those unaware, Gary was diagnosed with terminal cancer (malignant carcinoid tumor, which has metastasized to his liver) in January 2022. Without treatment, his life expectancy is under a year. He is currently on treatment and taking it each month at a time. Cancer's side effects and therapy have required Gary to retire early. He has lost significant weight, is dealing with chronic pain, and is coping with the enormous reality of being diagnosed with terminal cancer at age 53.

Recognizing Gary has spent his life working, striving to lead, and making a difference in his workplace, it is time for Gary to exhale and care for himself. Together we can contribute to alleviating financial burdens that will continue to grow. For example, his monthly treatments are approximately $26,000. Co-pays and being responsible for 20% of insurance costs accumulate fast. He is currently in the process of initiating his retirement insurance coverage, but this will only support him moving forward. He has already earmarked his 401k for end-of-life care. His most significant concern should not be jeopardizing his insurance coverage because of building debt or having to tap into his 401k to cover today’s expenses. Instead, his time should be spent figuring out how to reconnect with each of us.

Your support will go toward keeping his bills current and creating a quality of life for Gary that embodies cherished moments. It will be these moments he will hold tight as his cancer progresses. In return, it will be these moments we will reflect on when Gary is missed. Together, we have the ability to shift aside the anguish of Cancer and bring forward the power of connection, as Gary is courageously demonstrating.

Any level of contribution is incredibly appreciated and will go toward Gary's living expenses.

With much gratitude from Gary's village