Eric Tooke with metastatic prostate cancer

My name is Sarah Turner, and I am proud to be the daughter of my father, Eric Tooke. For those of you who know my father, he is a one-of-a-kind person. He has been the support and foundation for his wife, Shannon, and his three "Monkeys," Stefan, Isabelle, and me. My father is filled with love, laughter, jokes, and kindness; he would give you the shirt off his back or play you an acoustic guitar song to brighten your day. He enjoys working with young people, teaching them a trade, and helping them to believe in themselves; I cannot tell you how many kids (from high school to college) he has helped; the students would tell you the same thing. His strong perseverance and dedication to his family, friends, faith, and students are inspiring as he strives to make a positive impact on those around him. As Eric has supported those around him, whether a family member, friend, student, or stranger in need, it is our time to help him battle cancer!

Background: On 23 February 2023, my dad was diagnosed with Stage 4 metastatic prostate cancer by the Huntsman Cancer Institute in Salt Lake City, UT. After months of testing and patiently awaiting the results, we were informed that his cancer had metastasized. It has spread in the prostate, pelvic bones, lymph nodes (in the pelvic region), at the base of his bladder, and seminal vesicles. Learning this news as a family was devasting, even more so for my dad. Even with his positive outlook, being diagnosed and considering cancer treatment changes your new "normal" and sense to control your life. Feelings of fear, anger, fear, and helplessness cross your mind. Only by the grace of God and the love and support of family and friends can he maintain his courage and strength to fight his cancer.

Treatment Plan: Starting 08 May 2023, Eric will begin radiation therapy five days a week for six weeks. He will move to SLC, UT, for his treatment, and we hope to get him home in Blanding, UT, by 17 June. Shannon, his "Monkeys," family, and friends will take shifts in 1-week increments to stay with him and care for him throughout his treatment. On top of radiation therapy, my father will also have to take chemo/hormone pills every day for the next two years.

My parents have a friend from church who graciously agreed to help us; his parents rent out their basement apartment to families like us experiencing cancer and needing a place to stay while getting treatment. We cannot thank those who have willingly volunteered to open their homes, lent vehicles, and paid for gas money for tests enough!!! We know this is the hard part for Eric; he knows it, too. Nevertheless, this is where his strength, determination, faith in our Lord, and sheer will to live will come into play. Despite the circumstances, we are truly blessed and humble!

On behalf of my father, I kindly ask for any donation to help with extra expenses. Your gift, big or small, is graciously cherished as Eric navigates through this challenging journey. Any amount you can give will help eliminate some of the financial stresses of beating cancer. If you are unable to contribute, thoughts and prayers are embraced.

Your donations will support the following expenses:

• Medical expenses not covered by insurance

• Medications not covered by insurance

• Treatment not covered by insurance

• Travel expenses to the cancer center and hospitals

• Loss of income while in treatment

• Living expenses

On behalf of my amazing dad, I want to thank you for your love and support. Lastly, we know he can get himself into remission! Thank you!