Support for Steve

Steve Dempsey – who has faced life with an eye toward adventure and a love of a challenge – has got quite a different type of challenge ahead of him.  Steven has been diagnosed with a rare form of appendiceal cancer that has spread into the abdominal cavity (from a burst appendix), he will be undergoing the HIPEC procedure -essentially a highly complex surgery and chemotherapy treatment that will give him the best possible outcome and a good prognosis.  The surgery is quite invasive and is only performed by a few doctors. He will be heading to Seattle next week for a consultation, testing, etc. and have the surgery/chemo treatment there starting on the 26th.  He will be in the hospital for 2 weeks, in Seattle for 3 weeks. His mom and dad and Kaitlin will be with him.

We know that Steve has got a loving family and many friends who want to support him in any way possible.  While he may not be able to respond to everyone individually, we can make sure he knows we are all thinking of him by checking in, sending cards, sharing ridiculous videos, etc.  We will keep you up to date on his status through a site called the Caring Bridge. You can also leave well wishes and messages (videos, pictures, etc.) there.  He has health insurance but because this endeavor is “destination surgery,” he will have a ton of extra expenses that are not covered – multiple trips (some extended) to Seattle, lodging, meals, lost work time for him, Kaitlin & family, etc.

To that end….we are started this page for friends and family that would like to help them out with all of those other incidental expenses which are sure to pile up quickly on these newlyweds.  Please share with those who know and love Steve.