On October 24th, Ron Schmidt was diagnosed with stage 2 oropharyngeal (throat) cancer after a biopsy at the Roger Maris Cancer Center in Fargo, ND. The good news is that this type of cancer is treatable and curable, and Ron’s doctors are moving quickly to give him the best care possible.

Ron has already been fitted with his “coat of armor” (see photo) — a custom protective mask and vest for his head and neck during radiation treatments. His team at Roger Maris isn’t wasting any time: treatment begins Tuesday, November 11th and will include radiation and chemotherapy (Monday–Friday) for at least 7 weeks.

Because Ron and his wife Julie live in Minot, they’ll need to temporarily relocate to Fargo for the duration of his treatment. They will initially be staying with Ron’s brother and sister-in-law, Jerry and Claudie, and later move to Homewood Suites North closer to the Cancer Center from Thanksgiving Eve through early January 2026. They are so grateful for Jerry & Claudie's kindness and loving hospitality.

If you’d like to be in touch or send cards of encouragement, they can be mailed to: 5536 Farmstead Court South, Fargo, ND 58104.

Or after Thanksgiving: Homewood Suites: 2021 16th St North, Fargo, ND 58102

This will be a challenging journey. The treatments will be especially tough for Ron, as he has only one kidney, meaning his chemo plan will need special adjustments and could take longer. Despite the circumstances, Ron and Julie are keeping their spirits up; and plan to travel home to Minot on weekends whenever Ron is strong enough.

We’re asking for your support to help ease the unexpected costs of travel, temporary housing, and medical expenses that insurance doesn’t fully cover.

Ron served his community for 28 years as a respected Minot firefighter, 12 years as EMT with the Community Ambulance and continues to be an active member of the Fire & Iron Motorcycle Club. He and Julie are the kind of people who always show up when others are in need; now it’s our turn to show up for them.

Please consider donating, sharing this page, and keeping Ron and Julie in your prayers and thoughts as they take on this fight with courage and faith.

❤️ Let’s rally around them with love, strength, and support.