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Deb Theis

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Deb was diagnosed with stage 4 squamous cell carcinoma in the spring of 2017.  Known as a very aggressive oral tumor due to its fast growth and resistance to treatment.  By the time she was diagnosed, the cancer had spread to several areas and was considered inoperable. She was referred to the University of Minnesota for treatment.

During the summer of 2017 Deb underwent both chemotherapy and radiation treatment. She traveled over an hour each each way, 5 days a week, all summer long. Kevin, her husband, was her primary care taker during her treatment and recovery. Unfortunately, during a fall accident, Kevin broke his arm in the very beginning of Deb's treatment. He required a surgery and long recovery of his own. Treatment took it's toll, but Deb completed her entire protocol. 

The treatment did its job on Deb's cancer, but also took a severe toll on her health, and has left her with several permanent health conditions. She has lost a large portion of her vision due to the development of cataracts. She became diabetic and requires regular glucose monitoring and insulin.  She continues to need regular doctor visits and daily medications.

According to the latest ENT (ear/nose/throat) doctor, there is currently no visible sign of the cancer. Deb is determined to live her life as normally as she can despite her new obstacles. We are hoping to help Deb and Kevin return to a "new" normal.

We are hoping to raise money for general, and specific expenses. Deb is no longer undergoing treatment with the University, and Kevin must now acquire and pay for the medical supplies on his own. Several of Deb's daily cancer medications are not covered by insurance. Due to her lack of vision, she is unable to read print.

The Ruby HD XL Video Magnifier is a device made for people like Deb. It takes normal print and magnifies it up to 18x in HD. This device would give her the ability to return to her love of reading, and hopefully be able to help Kevin at the tax office next year. The device cost $1000. Deb applied for a grant, but unfortunately was not funded. We would like to help her get it!

Deb and Kevin are a single income household. Kevin owns his own small business, and supports them both. Due to Deb's difficulty with treatment and recovery, Kevin was unable to work his normal hours for 2017. He also had to hire outside help, as Deb was too ill to work with him. If you know them, then you understand that they would never ask for help. So we are asking for them.

We hope to raise money to purchase Deb the Ruby magnifier, help balance ongoing expenses, and off set the bills acquired during treatment. We are beyond grateful for all those who supported Deb and Kevin up to this point, and cannot thank you enough for your donations! We hope to make Deb's new "normal" the best life it can be!

Thank you!

Niki & Angie Rowland
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Donations 

  • Kayla Lilyquist
    • $75 
    • 5 yrs
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Fundraising team (2)

Niki Rowland
Organizer
Duluth, MN
Debra Theis
Beneficiary
Angie Rowland
Team member

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