A Community Rises for Duane: Fighting Stage 4 Colorectal Cancer

It’s a sobering truth that cancer touches nearly all of us. Each year, an estimated 1.9 million Americans are diagnosed with cancer, and over a lifetime, a staggering 40% of us will face this battle. In recent years, these statistics have become deeply personal for our community, touching our families and friends far too often.

Just last month, the weight of these numbers landed heavily on our hearts when our dear friend, Duane Cummins, received the devastating news of a Stage 4 colorectal cancer diagnosis.

In true "DC" fashion, he met this profound challenge not with despair, but with remarkable bravery, thoughtfulness, and an unwavering spirit. While traditional chemotherapy and radiation treatments were prescribed, Duane, ever the deep researcher and advocate for his own well-being, immediately delved into exploring alternative treatments and potential options to maximize his chances of overcoming this formidable disease. His initial, powerful response to the diagnosis, in his own words and images, can be found here.

As a gifted writer, poet, and artist, Duane is bravely documenting his journey. His diagnosis story is the powerful first installment of his "Cancer Diaries" series—a testament to his resilience and his commitment to sharing his experience with raw honesty and vulnerability. He’s extended the "Cancer Diaries" to video format, so please be on the lookout for reels coming to multiple social media platforms (Episode 01). As they say: Like, Follow, and Share. Your engagement with his story not only amplifies his voice but also helps raise crucial awareness for countless others.

The Urgent Need for Support

Now, we come to the heartfelt reason we reach out to you today. Duane's comprehensive course of treatment, encompassing both traditional therapies and the promising alternative options he’s diligently exploring, comes with an immense financial burden. While he is in the process of transitioning to SSI disability retirement, these crucial funds won't begin to flow until 2026. Even with that future support, the cost of his ongoing treatment is a truly crushing expense. This isn't just about medical bills; it's about giving Duane every possible chance to focus solely on healing, without the added weight of financial worry.

With this urgent need in mind, we have launched this GoFundMe initiative on Duane’s behalf. It took considerable persuasion to gain his consent for this step, as he is a wonderfully proud and independent man. However, with his blessing, we are reaching out to our friends, family, and community, humbly asking for your assistance in funding his vital treatment.

Please Open Your Heart for Duane

Every single contribution, no matter how small, will directly support Duane's courageous fight for life. Please know that there is no such thing as too small a donation—every dollar makes a tangible difference and is deeply appreciated. Your generosity will alleviate the immense financial stress he faces, allowing him to channel all his energy into battling this disease. It will be a beacon of hope for a man who inspires us all with his strength, his spirit, and his unwavering determination.

Beyond your financial support, we desperately need your help to circulate this GoFundMe far and wide. Please share this link with your networks, on social media, in community groups, and with anyone you know who might be able to help. The more people who see Duane’s story, the greater our collective impact will be.

Thank you for your time, compassion and heartfelt consideration.

Best,

Jeff & Jacqui

P.S. As our friend DC has said on a number of occasions: "FUCK CANCER!"