Support Dean's Battle Against Stage 4 Cancer

Aloha Family and Friends!

My name is Jennifer Fukumitsu and I am one of the countless people whose life has been touched by the Ponimoi family. I wanted to start this GoFundMe page for my dear friend who is battling cancer. This is a true testament to Dean, Patti and their 4 children's extension of grace, love, and service. This family is the first to give to others and insists on not receiving anything in return. The Bible says it is better to give than to receive, and if ever there was a time to extend financial relief, it is now. We know how much this family is loved by the community.

We, The Fukumitsu Family, have set up this fundraising page on behalf of Dean and his family. Our goal is to come together and show our support! A little goes a long way. Let’s keep his spirit up and fight this battle together.

WE LOVE YOU, Dean!!

The Fukumitsu Family

HIS STORY

Early January, my dear friend Dean was diagnosed with Stage 4 thymus squamous cell carcinoma, a rare and aggressive cancer. This cancer, which started in the thymus area, has now metastasized to other parts of his body. Chemotherapy was the initial treatment option, and Dean began his treatments immediately. Between February 2024 and June 2024, he completed seven rounds of chemotherapy. However, scans at the end of June 2024 revealed that his body had stopped responding to the chemotherapy, and the tumors had grown and spread further.

As a result, doctors decided to try targeted therapy, starting Dean on the maximum dose of Lenvima, a daily medication designed to attack the mutating cells directly. Unfortunately, Lenvima has been taking a toll on him, causing consistent pain that makes any strenuous activity or movement difficult. Efforts are ongoing to find the right form of pain management for Dean.

Multiple attempts have been made to get a second opinion at MD Anderson, but they were denied because his medical insurance is out of network. MD Anderson specializes in this rare type of cancer, and there is a strong desire to proceed with a consult and lab reviews to ensure Dean receives the best possible treatment, even if it means paying out of pocket.

Dean and his family are incredibly humble and private people who never ask for financial help or even disclose their needs. Please pray for Dean's spirits to remain high, for physical strength to withstand the treatments, and for his medical team to be guided in their efforts.

The Ponimoi family and I have been friends for over 30 years. Our friendship has seen us through countless milestones, and I have always admired his resilience and positivity. It breaks my heart to see him and his family go through this, but I am inspired by their unwavering faith and determination. Dean is not just a friend; he is family, and we are committed to doing everything we can to support him through this challenging time.

Any financial assistance provided will be used for medical consultations, treatments, and associated expenses not covered by insurance. Your support, prayers, and generosity during this challenging time are deeply appreciated.

Donate and share to support Dean's fight against cancer.

Thank you and God bless.