Gunderson family

"Chad has been a firefighter/paramedic in Lawrence since 2001 as well as serving in the National Guard since 1994. In March of 2020, Chad was diagnosed with Glioblastoma (stage 4 brain cancer). He is just 48 years old. Glioblastoma has a life expectancy of 12-15 months. We are almost at two years into our fight and that has included 3 brain surgeries, numerous trips to Houston for treatment at MD Anderson and a clinical trial in St. Louis where we have spent several months back and forth every two weeks for treatments. In September, we received the news that treatments aren't working and the tumor is growing in a different spot. The clinical trial has stopped and we are trying one last chemo to help give us more time.

 

Before Chad's diagnosis, we were already going through medical issues with our daughter. At 15, she was diagnosed with Conversion Disorder (a seizure disorder that can have a loss of consciousness and episodes of paralysis). We both have always worked and Chad really wanted to go back to work, but in his condition he cannot perform his duties as a paramedic. He had to take a disability retirement, which is about half of his income. We have struggled with bills and I just want to take the burden off of Chad for the holidays." - Candy

 

During this season of giving lets give this family the support they need to have a memorable holiday to cherish forever. Chad dedicated his life to serving others and now is the time for us to give back to him. Please support this Hero and his family!  

Myself (Jen Persons) or Chad and/or Candy (Gunderson) will be responsible for withdrawing the funds from this fundraiser.  Once the funds are withdrawn, if by myself, they will personally be given to Chad and Candy via cashiers check. The funds will be utilized towards Chad's medical bills and travel expenses for medical procedures.  I, Jen Persons, am a fellow firefighter/coworker of Chad's.