Galen Stomps Out Cancer

In May 2020 Galen had severe abdominal pain and went to the ER. He was transferred to Avera McKennan. They found a large intestinal restriction and after a colonoscopy, the biopsy showed Galen had colon cancer. On June 1 he had surgery to remove his entire large intestine. The mass was approximately the size of a lime. The surgeon put a team together to go over his intestine and scans as it is “unusual” to see this in someone so young. He was diagnosed with colon cancer/mixed neuroendocrine-non-neuroendocrine neoplasm. After a referral to the Mayo Clinic, they received a treatment plan with an aggressive treatment comprised of multiple chemo drugs. Galen wanted to jump right into chemotherapy, but had elevated liver enzymes and had to wait until his levels normalized. He began treatment July 21. He receives chemo every other week at the Cancer Center in Marshall and is sent home with a pump for 48 hours. He will complete 12 rounds of chemo. The good news is that his most recent scan showed he was cancer free.

Galen and his girls have been trying to have as normal of a summer/fall as possible, making memories and spending as much time together as possible. Galen has even continued to work his job sites—the boss never rests—even recruiting Jamie to help. The girls have been resilient as kids often are and seemed to be adjusting to this current way of life.

The Lanners family still has many battles ahead. More chemo and more surgery down the road. Though Galen continues to work, a cancer diagnosis is not a cheap proposition. At the urging of friends (it took a lot of urging, and they were hesitant to set up a page), they agreed to a GoFundMe page.

First and foremost, they ask for your prayers—prayers that Galen will stomp out cancer. Prayers for strength and healing. Prayers for hope, courage and faith. Prayers for things they may not even know yet.

Secondly, we (their pushy friends) ask for financial gifts to help them weather this difficult chapter in their lives. If you feel like you can make a contribution or share this GoFundMe page, we’d greatly appreciate it. Galen, Jamie and their girls thank you from the bottom of their hearts and are humbled by your gifts.

Your donations will be used to help them pay medical and everyday (because even amidst the cancer, life continues to go in) bills, travel and accommodations to and from appointments and, if Galen’s heath allows, special time and trips to make memories with his family.