Help Tom Z. Tackle Lymphoma!
Donation protected
Dear 'Team Tom',
Take a knee...
As you may have heard, our dear friend Tom Zdun was recently diagnosed with Stage 4 Diffuse Large B cell non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, a fast moving, aggressive form of blood cancer. Specifically, it impacts the B Lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. The diagnosis was made subsequent to finding a large lump in Tom's armpit in November. Unfortunately, a routine check of this finding was delayed due to a positive COVID-19 test result. Although Tom's COVID symptoms were minimal, he started to experience pain in and around his abdomen and back that seemed strange in spite of COVID. Since that time, as symptoms persisted and gradually worsened, Tom had a battery of tests (MRI, CT scan and biopsy) that pointed in the direction that no one wants to hear, that his symptoms were likely the result of cancerous activity. Finally, a firm diagnosis from his oncologist was made on Thursday, 1/7/21. On that same day, blood work revealed a dangerous complication in the form of elevated levels of calcium in Tom's bloodstream that required immediate hospitalization. Looking forward, Tom will immediately start chemo once the calcium situation has been mitigated and neutralized.
Team, Huddle Up...
Tom, Stephanie, Marlee, Owen and Jackson are blessed with an amazing group of friends and family. This is not by accident. Tommy and Steph are the brother and sister, neighbor, friend, co-worker and teammate that so many of us are beyond fortunate to know. They have stood by many of us in the best of times, and during some of our most trying times. As teammates of Tom can attest, you don't want to be on the opposing line of scrimmage with the man, but you couldn't ask for a better "brother" to go shoulder to shoulder into battle with! For those of us who know Tom from other arenas, he is remarkably the kind of person you immediately feel comfortable around. Larger than life, his outgoing, hilarious personality is matched only by his selfless and caring demeanor. The same can absolutely be said for his other half, Stephanie. I dare you to think of a time with either of these individuals where your cheeks weren't stretched a little further than normal and stomach didn't hurt from laughter, regardless of the occasion. You could not ask for a better "team" when these two are a part of it! Now, we have an opportunity to stand shoulder to shoulder with both of them as they tackle Lymphoma.
The Game Plan...
Many have asked how they can help from both near and far. Right now, help can come in many forms: a "Meal Train" calendar has been established via the Caring Bridge site (click on the "Ways to Help" button), activities for the kids or kid friendly restaurant gift cards, or if there is a specific talent you possess and believe might be helpful, please reach out. These are a just a few ways we can show our love for the Zduns. As Tom's treatment progresses and the seriousness of Tom's situation is assessed further, specific financial needs may come to light. So for the time being, any contributions made to this GoFundMe page will go towards groceries, assistance with additional medical bills that are sure to come and/or ancillaries that will help support Tom and Steph's ability to focus on the fight and the mission to beat Lymphoma!
Time to dominate!
Thank you all for being a great "team" of support for the Zduns! They truly appreciate the positive thoughts, prayers and sentiments being sent their way.
Take a knee...
As you may have heard, our dear friend Tom Zdun was recently diagnosed with Stage 4 Diffuse Large B cell non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, a fast moving, aggressive form of blood cancer. Specifically, it impacts the B Lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. The diagnosis was made subsequent to finding a large lump in Tom's armpit in November. Unfortunately, a routine check of this finding was delayed due to a positive COVID-19 test result. Although Tom's COVID symptoms were minimal, he started to experience pain in and around his abdomen and back that seemed strange in spite of COVID. Since that time, as symptoms persisted and gradually worsened, Tom had a battery of tests (MRI, CT scan and biopsy) that pointed in the direction that no one wants to hear, that his symptoms were likely the result of cancerous activity. Finally, a firm diagnosis from his oncologist was made on Thursday, 1/7/21. On that same day, blood work revealed a dangerous complication in the form of elevated levels of calcium in Tom's bloodstream that required immediate hospitalization. Looking forward, Tom will immediately start chemo once the calcium situation has been mitigated and neutralized.
Team, Huddle Up...
Tom, Stephanie, Marlee, Owen and Jackson are blessed with an amazing group of friends and family. This is not by accident. Tommy and Steph are the brother and sister, neighbor, friend, co-worker and teammate that so many of us are beyond fortunate to know. They have stood by many of us in the best of times, and during some of our most trying times. As teammates of Tom can attest, you don't want to be on the opposing line of scrimmage with the man, but you couldn't ask for a better "brother" to go shoulder to shoulder into battle with! For those of us who know Tom from other arenas, he is remarkably the kind of person you immediately feel comfortable around. Larger than life, his outgoing, hilarious personality is matched only by his selfless and caring demeanor. The same can absolutely be said for his other half, Stephanie. I dare you to think of a time with either of these individuals where your cheeks weren't stretched a little further than normal and stomach didn't hurt from laughter, regardless of the occasion. You could not ask for a better "team" when these two are a part of it! Now, we have an opportunity to stand shoulder to shoulder with both of them as they tackle Lymphoma.
The Game Plan...
Many have asked how they can help from both near and far. Right now, help can come in many forms: a "Meal Train" calendar has been established via the Caring Bridge site (click on the "Ways to Help" button), activities for the kids or kid friendly restaurant gift cards, or if there is a specific talent you possess and believe might be helpful, please reach out. These are a just a few ways we can show our love for the Zduns. As Tom's treatment progresses and the seriousness of Tom's situation is assessed further, specific financial needs may come to light. So for the time being, any contributions made to this GoFundMe page will go towards groceries, assistance with additional medical bills that are sure to come and/or ancillaries that will help support Tom and Steph's ability to focus on the fight and the mission to beat Lymphoma!
Time to dominate!
Thank you all for being a great "team" of support for the Zduns! They truly appreciate the positive thoughts, prayers and sentiments being sent their way.
Organizer
Kristen Renes
Organizer
Holland, MI
