Support Donald Benedict Through His Cancer Crisis

Donald, 27, paused treatment; funds will cover rent, food, travel, and counseling

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$805 raised of $10K

Support Donald Benedict Through His Cancer Crisis

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Help Donald Benedict With Living Support During Cancer Crisis

Hi everyone,
We never imagined we would be writing something like this, but our family is in an incredibly difficult place right now.

Donald is only 27 years old and was diagnosed with Classical Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in August 2025. He began chemotherapy in September and has endured the physical and emotional toll of cancer far beyond what most people can imagine.

Hopeful Medical Progress — But Emotional Collapse

In January, Donald received hopeful news: his PET scan showed his tumor had decreased by about 50%. His doctors believed he was nearing the end of chemotherapy, with radiation planned next and a strong likelihood of remission.

But cancer doesn’t only attack the body.

Around the same time, Donald’s mental health began to take a serious dive. He suffered the loss of a close friend, and the ongoing weight of cancer has been crushing — loss of independence, loss of normal life, loss of freedom, and loss of income.

To make things worse, Donald applied for disability support and was denied, leaving him without the financial stability he desperately needs.

A Devastating Turning Point
As of this past weekend, Donald has made the decision to stop all cancer treatments. This has been heartbreaking and frightening for everyone who loves him. Our family is trying to walk beside him with compassion and respect while also encouraging him not to give up. We are praying for clarity, strength, peace, and hope — because right now, things are not okay.

Why We Are Fundraising Here
We do have a Help Hope Live campaign, but that fund is limited strictly to approved medical reimbursements. It cannot help with the very real day-to-day needs Donald is facing right now.

This GoFundMe is to support Donald more holistically, including:

  • Rent and basic living expenses while he cannot work
  • Transportation and travel for appointments
  • Food, bills, and essential costs
  • Mental health support and counseling
  • Stability during this uncertain and emotional season
  • Support as our family rallies around him

How You Can Help
If you are able, please consider donating. If you can’t donate, sharing this fundraiser or keeping Donald in your prayers means just as much.

Donald is deeply loved. He is a bright light in our family. And right now, he needs a community around him more than ever. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for caring, supporting, and standing with Donald.

With gratitude,
The Benedicts and Family

Organizer and beneficiary

Aubrey Gillen
Organizer
Imperial, CA
Donald Benedict
Beneficiary
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