Dear Friends, Family, and Kind Supporters,

Last week, we received devastating news about our brother, cousin, son and friend, Chucky Gabelein.

What was once undiagnosed colon cancer has aggressively spread to his liver, lymph nodes, mesenteries, lungs, and hip. His cancer is inoperable, and due to its advanced stage, treatment options are no longer viable.

This news has shaken our family to the core, especially given how quickly everything has unfolded and that it is coming up on only 18 months since we lost Chucky’s brother and Duane’s other son, Rod.

In December, Chucky went to the doctor and was given a clean bill of health and then in January he was sick with what we thought was the flu and he didn’t seem to get better.

In just six short weeks, the cancer has advanced rapidly, leaving us heartbroken and in urgent need of support.

Throughout his adult life, Chucky has relied on his father, Duane, for financial support. At 84 years old, Duane continues to be Chucky’s primary provider, digging graves and installing drain fields to keep up with his payments and financial obligations.

Unfortunately, Chucky has not been able to receive Social Security benefits, leaving our family facing an overwhelming financial burden as we navigate the difficult road ahead. His insurance doesn’t seem to be covering his medical needs and he was forced to leave Virginia Mason and is being taken care of by family and friends around the clock.

How Your Support Can Help:

The next few weeks will bring unexpected medical expenses, end-of-life care, and the heartbreaking reality of planning for funeral and burial costs.

Your donation will go directly toward:

• Immediate medical and comfort care to ensure Chucky is as pain-free and supported as possible.

• Financial relief for his father, Duane, who has selflessly provided for Chucky and now faces overwhelming expenses.

• Funeral and burial expenses, so we can honor Chucky’s life and legacy with the dignity he deserves.

Please know no amount is too small—every contribution will help lighten the burden on our family during this incredibly painful time.

We recognize that this is a trying time for many families and funds are limited for all. If you are unable to donate, we would be grateful if you could share this fundraiser with others who may be able to help.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support. We are holding on to the love and strength of our community as we walk this difficult journey with Chucky.

This special community has been our backbone and our strength throughout the years as we have shared and managed the many challenges of our lives, and we humbly ask for your support during this chapter of our journey.

With Deep Gratitude ...