Hi, my name is Jordan Booker, and I’m creating this fundraiser for my partner, Joey Caroni. Myself and a few of his closest friends encouraged him to let us set this up on his behalf.

Joey has been sick since January. What started as a sore throat turned into urgent care visits, ER trips, CT scans, and ultimately surgery in July — where he was diagnosed with tonsil cancer. The months of medical bills and missed work have already depleted his savings, and now he’s about to begin intensive daily treatment.

Because Joey’s case is more complex, he needs care from head and neck cancer specialists in Ontario, which means driving 78 miles each way, five days a week, for seven weeks of chemotherapy and radiation — followed by several more weeks of weekly appointments. On top of travel, there are co-pays, medications, and nutrition costs (like weight gain powder and liquid supplements) that aren’t covered by insurance.

We originally set out to raise enough to cover these immediate costs, and thanks to this incredible community, we met that first goal. ❤️

But as we’ve gotten further into planning, we learned Joey does not have enough paid leave to cover the full time away from work. This means that for about a month of his three-month leave, he will only be receiving 60% of his salary — and it’s possible his leave may need to extend even longer.

That’s why we’ve increased the fundraising goal. Your support will now help cover:

    •    Gas & travel: ~5,500 miles of commuting for treatment → ~$1,600

    •    Medical co-pays & prescriptions: ~$800

(Appointments, medications, OTC pain relief, mouth rinses, etc.)

    •    Nutrition & incidentals: ~$800

(Weight-gain supplements, meal replacements, soft foods, hydration, personal care)

    •    Lost wages: Bridging the ~40% gap in salary for 1–2 months of leave

New goal: $12,000

Every single donation — whether big or small — reduces Joey’s stress and makes it possible for him to focus fully on what matters most: healing and recovery.

Joey has always been independent and would never ask for this himself. We want to take away as much worry as possible so he can put all his energy toward getting well.

Thank you for surrounding him with your love, generosity, and encouragement. We can’t wait to see him come out of this stronger, healthier, and ready to give back the same love you’ve all shown him.

—Jordan & family