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On September 20th, our beloved Dee received the devastating diagnosis of Stage IV Pancreatic Cancer.
Dee is a proud retired veteran with over 20 years of military service and a Masters Degree in Social Work. She is a mother of five, and a devoted wife. Her life has always been about serving others, in the military, in her community, and as the rock of her family. She and her wife Erica, who works remotely as a Clinical Analyst for Emplify Health, were just married on July 4th of this year. It was a celebration filled with love, hope, and dreams for their future together.
Dee is no stranger to adversity. She has already survived thyroid cancer and cervical cancer. She has fought through every battle life has placed in her path with courage and grit. But this new diagnosis is her toughest challenge yet.
Dee’s children are her world: Her two oldest twin sons both serving in active duty military, her middle daughter is currently away studying forensics at college, and her two youngest boys, will all need extra love and support through this difficult time.
Together, Dee and Erica also care for their four dogs (including Dee’s service dog, Apollo) and two cats — making their home in Oshkosh, WI full of life, warmth, and love.
The Road Ahead
Dee has chosen to move forward with the most aggressive chemotherapy available for pancreatic cancer and will be receiving her first treatment on September 29th and bi-weekly going forward. The coming months will be filled with medical appointments, travel for treatments, and the emotional and physical toll that cancer brings. While the VA will be covering most of the medical costs, the reality is that everyday living expenses are about to grow overwhelming.
This fundraiser is meant to support quality of life for Dee and Erica during this battle:
- Household support: hiring a cleaner, keeping up with home supplies, and ensuring the house stays manageable.
- Pet care: kenneling and caring for their dogs and cats when treatment and travel make it difficult.
- Travel & lodging: costs for medical trips, gas, and overnight stays near treatment centers.
- Groceries & meals: easy meals, takeout, and groceries to keep the family nourished when time and energy are short.
- Support for the kids: entertainment, outings, and small gifts to help Grayson and Arthur maintain joy and stability.
- Holiday's coming up: Christmas gifts and taking part in traditions.
- Moments of peace: opportunities for short getaways and quality time together as a family, making memories that will last.
Our Goal
We are asking for $20,000 to help Dee and Erica focus on what matters most: fighting cancer and spending meaningful time together as a family. Every donation, no matter the size, will go directly to easing their daily burdens. Whether it’s $20 for groceries, $50 for gas, or more to cover bigger needs, your generosity will make a real and immediate difference.
How You Can Help
- Donate if you are able — every single dollar is appreciated.
- Share this campaign with friends, family, and your networks.
- Keep Dee and Erica in your thoughts and prayers as they face the difficult journey ahead.
Dee has always been a fighter — in her military service, in her role as a mom, and in her battles with cancer. With your support, we can help her face this diagnosis surrounded by love, dignity, and care.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for supporting Dee, Erica, and their family.