If you know Zach Olberding, you know the kind of person he is: the guy who shows up, the guy who makes people laugh, the guy who always has your back, and the guy who cares deeply for everyone around him. Now he needs all of us to show up for him.

In early March, his world changed overnight. Zach went to the emergency room and received the kind of news no one is ever prepared for. At just 38 years old, he was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer. After a week of hospitalization at Regions, he received his diagnosis and began treatment right away. He will undergo six months of chemotherapy through HealthPartners and is currently waiting to see if he will be accepted as a patient at Mayo Clinic, where he will have surgery later this fall.

This diagnosis has been shocking for everyone who knows and loves him. Zach is far too young to be facing something this heavy, and the road ahead will be long — physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially.

And yet, even in the middle of this heartbreak, there is so much worth fighting for.

Zach and his wife, Erika, were married in April 2024 and recently welcomed their baby boy, Parker, in December 2025. Parker is the sweetest little guy, already full of Zach’s happy-go-lucky spirit and unmistakable grin.

This should be a season filled with joy, new memories, and time together as a young family. Instead, they are facing chemotherapy, major medical decisions, uncertainty, and the weight of unexpected expenses.

Zach has built a life rooted in hard work, kindness, and community. He went to Roseville High School and attended Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota in Winona, where he played baseball and studied graphic design. Since graduating, he has worked at Lettermen Sports.

Zach makes an impact everywhere he goes, not because he asks for attention, but because he is simply the kind of person people gravitate toward. Loyal, genuine, funny, and full of heart.

We’re starting this fundraiser to help ease the burden on Zach, Erika, and Parker during this difficult time. Donations will go toward medical expenses, treatment costs, travel for appointments and care, time away from work, childcare, and everyday living expenses as they focus on what matters most: Zach’s fight and their family.

No amount is too small, and every donation, share, and prayer means the world.

Zach has a large village of family and friends who love him deeply. Let’s rally around him the way he has always rallied around others.

Thank you for loving Zach, praying for healing, and helping support his family through the fight ahead.