Hello!

Our names are Sue, Darlene and Vanessa. We are reaching out to share the story of our dear dear friend, Dean Stroeder, who is facing a tough battle. Dean has been diagnosed with base of the tongue and throat cancer... and he's never been a smoker... which seems especially unfair! He is determined to fight with everything he’s got (including an amazingly positive attitude) and his radiation oncologist has said that with treatment there is an 80-90% chance of a cure for Dean. That is the good news ... if you can call it that ... but as a self-employed person, not being able to work for an extended period is a seriously daunting prospect.

Dean has now started (as of December 5, 2024) two months of treatments which means 35 rounds of radiation and 7 rounds of chemo here in Victoria, BC, Canada. The doctors cannot tell Dean how long it will take for him to feel well enough to work again or even socialize again as he may need to stay away from possibly catching colds or covid or flu. None of us like getting sick, but imagine having a cough when your throat is already raw and you can barely swallow. It could be up to a year where fatigue, poor appetite, struggling to eat, weakness, weight loss, difficulty with speaking, lowered immune system, etc. will limit his ability to get back in to his work routine. We will keep you all updated regularly as to his progress.

Dean has spent much of his life working as a social dance instructor and DJ, and in addition over the past 7 years, as a handyman and house painter. Whether teaching dance steps or fixing up somebody's home with care and detail, or entertaining a crowd with his charismatic DJ voice and great selection of music, Dean has always poured his heart in to his work.

As a self-employed individual with no extended medical or employment benefits, cancer has thrown him into rocky, uncharted territory. Treatment for base of the tongue and throat cancer will not only be physically challenging and exhausting but also financially overwhelming.

OUR GOAL:

We would like to raise $30,000.00, or whatever amount we can, to help Dean to support himself while he battles this formidable life circumstance.

HOW YOU CAN HELP:

DONATE: Any amount you are able to contribute is greatly appreciated and will make a difference. Whether it is the cost of a cup of coffee, a meal, or more, your contribution will show Dean that he is appreciated and surrounded by love and support.

The funds raised will all go to Dean to help him with:

• Medical expenses: covering medications, and specialized care not paid for by BC Medical;

• Daily living costs: rent, utilities, groceries, gas, insurance, etc.; (We all know how expensive life can be!)

• Peace of mind: providing financial stability as he navigates the long road to healing.

SHARE: We know it is the holiday season and money can be tight so whether or not you donate, please SHARE this fundraiser. That way we hope to reach so many more people that may be able to contribute towards the goal. The more we all spread this Go Fund Me page, the better chance of reaching that goal.

SUPPORT: Kind words of encouragement will mean the world to Dean. Also, please continue to dance on Thursday nights at the Legion and sign up for Dean and Vanessa's Wednesday night classes when offered - there will be guest instructors helping out. We want to keep these two nights thriving for when Dean returns.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Dean is a very special person to each of us as he is to many of you and your kindness will mean so much to him.

With gratitude and hope,

Sue, Darlene and Vanessa