Dedee Schillinger Cancer Diagnosis

Dedee's Journey -

January 25, 2023, I was sent a text message that no one ever wants to receive. My friend Dedee was reaching out to let me know, she’s just been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Her yearly mammogram called for a biopsy on January 12th. January 17th she received the call to confirm cancer existed, but it was caught in the very early stages.

Breast cancer, unfortunately, is nothing new in her family, her mom passed from it in 2013. Her mom had missed a few yearly mammograms. When her cancer was detected it was already in a later stage.

I have known Dedee and her husband, Jeff, since they moved to Phillips, Wisconsin back in 1990. Phillips at the time didn’t have many day care options, especially for newborns and infants. I remember Dedee being concerned if her day care would be successful in a new town. I assured her it would be. Dinosaur Land Day Care soon opened, and my youngest daughter was one of her first clients. Dedee had already been a day care provider with 3 years of experience, in Eau Claire and River Falls, before her move to Phillips. She is now in her 36th year.

Being self-employed has its many rewards and challenges. While undergoing upcoming surgery, physical therapy appointments, and a possible second surgery for reconstruction, Dinosaur Land will be closed for periods of time. This will mean a loss of income. As anyone self-employed knows there are no paid sick days. Medical bills have already been hitting her mailbox. She will be frequently traveling to the Fox Valley.

Dedee is not only someone who loves her business, but she will also miss her day care children during her time away. Many of Deedee’s day care kids are 2nd generation. This speaks volumes to the love and care Dedee has given to the children in the Phillips community.

She is also a devoted wife, mom, sister, auntie, a dear friend to many, and soon-to-be grandma. I failed to mention she is also the ultimate lover of animals. The Schillinger's are a very close-knit community-oriented family.

Dedee has been active in Northwoods Players in the past for approximately 10 years. She’s a member of the Northwoods Harness Club and competes in horse carriage show competitions.

How can I help Dedee during this difficult time? Number one, pray for her to have strength during this journey. Never underestimate the power of prayer.

Second, share her story. Dedee is open about her diagnosis and there will be updates on her condition posted here.

If you're reading this and choose to donate in some fashion, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your support, whether it’s through prayer, words of support or monetary, we cannot thank you enough.

God’s blessings,

Family and Friends of the Schillinger family