A Firefighter and Paramedic's Toughest Battle: Ocular Melanoma

Our friend, Collin Bender, is known for running toward danger as a dedicated public servant, working as both a firefighter and a paramedic. His commitment began with his time volunteering at White Marsh in 2012 and continued into his career at Anne Arundel County Fire Department since April 2014. Collin is also a loving husband to Kristen, and a devoted father to Natalie (age 7) and Jameson (age 4). Now, he faces a rare and serious diagnosis of Ocular Melanoma in his left eye. This is a highly uncommon cancer, affecting only about 6 in 1 million people each year.

This diagnosis was found during a routine eye exam, and Collin wants his story to be a vital reminder of how important these routine exams are for everyone. The treatment plan is highly optimistic: The Plaque Radiation Surgery scheduled at Wills Eye Hospital is 98% effective in controlling and killing the melanoma.

We are raising funds to support Collin as he prepares for this highly successful treatment and winning the battle of life and sight.

Supporting the Hero and His Family

As a dedicated public servant, Collin has a natural tendency to focus on the needs of others. He is used to being the one offering support, not receiving it.

However, this campaign isn't just about the diagnosis; it’s about supporting Collin, Kristen, Natalie, and Jameson through a crisis. It's about ensuring this family and their stability is protected while Collin focuses 100% on his recovery and getting back to the job he loves. This is our chance to be there for the hero who is always there for us.

Initial Goal: Covering the Critical December Trip to Philadelphia

Collin's critical procedure is scheduled to begin on Monday, December 11th, at the world-renowned Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia, under the care of Dr. Carol L. Shields. The treatment involves Plaque Radiation Surgery—the placement of a radioactive plaque (created by the Radiation Oncology Team at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital) on December 11th, which will then be removed on Friday, December 15th. This requires him and Kristen to be away from home for a full week.

The Updated Goal:

Our initial GoFundMe goal was specifically set to cover the travel and lodging for the December procedure. However, we are now pivoting the campaign's focus to include and tackle the medical debts in order to continue supporting the Bender family through Collin's recovery.

​Every dollar raised from this point forward will go directly to:

​Paying down the medical bills not covered by insurance: ​Covering uncovered costs for this necessary procedure & follow-up care with specialist.

​Supplementing Collin’s lost wages as he recovers and faces reduced working capacity as a firefighter/paramedic.

Thank You for Your Continued Support:

​Collin and Kristen are facing this challenge with their usual courage, but they cannot do it alone. Your continued support is what allows them to focus on Collin's health, rather than the fear of financial collapse.

How You Can Help

We are asking for your help to lift this immediate financial burden. Every dollar raised will go directly to covering their essential expenses in Philadelphia for the week of the procedure and follow-up visits.

Please donate what you can, and more importantly, share this link widely with your networks, especially within the White Marsh and Anne Arundel County fire and EMS communities.

Let’s ensure this brave family is supported while they focus on winning the battle of life and sight! Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support.