Dean’s journey began in April 2022, when sudden lower back pain led us from Niagara Falls to Mount Sinai Hospital, where he was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. After biopsies and PET scans, he bravely completed six cycles of chemotherapy starting in July 2022.

In the summer of 2023, the lymphoma returned. New tumors were found in his neck, armpit, and thigh, and Dean began another round of chemotherapy in November 2023. By summer 2024, doctors confirmed the disease had become very aggressive, and CAR-T cell therapy was planned for December at Princess Margaret Hospital. During this time, we stayed in downtown Toronto for daily blood work and treatment.

Shortly after CAR-T therapy, Dean contracted COVID and was hospitalized for a week, followed by two weeks in a rehabilitation centre. In June 2025, doctors discovered the lymphoma had spread to his liver. Urgent treatment was planned, but repeated high fevers led to multiple hospital admissions and delays.

In January, Dean was rushed to Toronto General Hospital and admitted to the ICU in critical condition. Through every setback, Dean has shown incredible strength and courage. We are sharing his story to help support the overwhelming medical, travel, and living expenses during this long and difficult fight.

Thank you for your kindness, prayers, and support