Hanshi’s Cancer Fund

Hanshi Robert Herten has always been someone you look up to. Stronger than lead. He was the man not even kryptonite could bring down. However there’s something even stronger than kryptonite that not even Hanshi can battle alone. Cancer.

Hanshi was first diagnosed with Achalasia back in 2016 and according to his doctors he’s had this all his life but since he got older it became worse over time. Achalasia is a rare disorder making it difficult for food and liquid to pass into the stomach. Achalasia results from damage to nerves in the food tube (esophagus), preventing the esophagus from squeezing food into the stomach. It may be caused by an abnormal immune system response. Hanshi then had surgery to help this issue. He was fine for a few months and then the symptoms came back again.

Hanshi went back for more tests and then in August of 2019 he was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. He went for chemotherapy and radiation to shrink the tumor and completed in November. Doctors, however, wanted Hanshi to get stronger so they can perform a esophagectomy (removal of partial or all of the esophagus) and to move his stomach up to his chest. However, on Tuesday February 11th the surgeon went in and discovered the tumor had grown and attached itself to the aorta. Doctors advised continuing would be risky and they decided they could not perform the procedure.

Hanshi will be going to a rehabilitation center to get stronger and possibility of immunotherapy. Immunotherapy, also called biologic therapy, is a type of cancer treatment that boosts the body's natural defenses to fight cancer. It uses substances made by the body or in a laboratory to improve or restore immune system function. Immunotherapy may work by: Stopping or slowing the growth of cancer cells. There are also other medical expenses and to also help my grandmother (Mrs Hanshi) with everyday expenses.

We are asking if any donations can be made. Anything would be greatly appreciated. Any amount can help. We want to thank all of you who have been praying and asking what you guys can do to help. We couldn’t have asked for a better Dojo Family! Our dojo family has always been big. It’s time for us to be bonded to support him. Hanshi has taught us all so much and now it’s time to be there for him.

Thank you Sincerely Kellie, Barbara, Tracie, Larry, Melissa, Bobby, Scott, Mel, and Jacob.