Donavon’s Story

Seventeen-year-old Donavon Schwenk from Lompoc, California, has always had a heart for helping others — especially animals and marine life. As Head Curator at the Cabrillo High School Aquarium, he’s spent countless hours caring for fish and sea creatures, even nursing many back to health.

In late October 2025, Donavon developed severe swelling in his neck. After multiple hospital visits, scans, and biopsies, doctors discovered a large mass pressing against major veins and arteries. He has since been diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.

The weeks since have been filled with long hospital stays, invasive biopsies, and emotional ups and downs. Through it all, Donavon has shown incredible strength — smiling through pain, joking with nurses, and staying hopeful. His parents, Sarah and Chris, and siblings Merrick and Hirie have been by his side every step of the way.

This GoFundMe was created to help support Donavon’s ongoing treatment and travel for care in Santa Barbara, allowing his family to focus fully on his healing. Every prayer, message, and donation means more than words can say.