Dear friends and family,
Today I’d like to share the story of my remarkable father.
In August of 2025, my dad began experiencing pain in his upper abdomen. At first, he thought it was just GERD, but as the pain lingered and his appetite faded, he realized something more serious was happening. By late September, he developed a calf cramp that soon traveled down his leg, and then he started having pain when he breathed. With his background in cardiovascular sales, he worried about a blood clot and went to Saint Clair Hospital. There, doctors found a superficial clot in his leg, a DVT in his arm, and multiple bilateral pulmonary embolisms. During an MRI, they discovered something none of us expected: stage IV pancreatic cancer. He started intense chemotherapy short after in mid October, facing this diagnosis with incredible strength and positivity.
On January 2, 2026, my dad suffered a stroke and spent 4 days in the hospital. Thankfully, he has no lasting side effects, but it was another frightening moment for him and our family. Although he was on blood thinners for his previous clots, the stroke still occurred. January 13th we got news the chemo he was on was not working as effectively as hoped. His regimen of meds has since changed. Through all of this, my dad has shown resilience and courage that inspires everyone around him. He continues to fight every day, never losing hope or his positive spirit, even when facing challenges no one should have to endure.
If you know my dad, you know how hilarious, adventurous, enthusiastic and caring he is. He is a devoted father, friend, and brother. We are creating this fundraiser to show our love, care, and support for him as he goes through this difficult journey. The funds raised will go toward medical expenses, support for himself and our family, and alleviate any financial burdens he may feel during these hard times. Any donation big or small will be appreciated from the bottom of our hearts.
I truly appreciate the kindness and support and the time taken to read my dad’s story.
With heartfelt gratitude,
The Olson girls
Update 3/16/26: Douglas sadly passed away in his home with family. His battle was courageous. All donations will go to support the family and funeral expenses.
Today I’d like to share the story of my remarkable father.
In August of 2025, my dad began experiencing pain in his upper abdomen. At first, he thought it was just GERD, but as the pain lingered and his appetite faded, he realized something more serious was happening. By late September, he developed a calf cramp that soon traveled down his leg, and then he started having pain when he breathed. With his background in cardiovascular sales, he worried about a blood clot and went to Saint Clair Hospital. There, doctors found a superficial clot in his leg, a DVT in his arm, and multiple bilateral pulmonary embolisms. During an MRI, they discovered something none of us expected: stage IV pancreatic cancer. He started intense chemotherapy short after in mid October, facing this diagnosis with incredible strength and positivity.
On January 2, 2026, my dad suffered a stroke and spent 4 days in the hospital. Thankfully, he has no lasting side effects, but it was another frightening moment for him and our family. Although he was on blood thinners for his previous clots, the stroke still occurred. January 13th we got news the chemo he was on was not working as effectively as hoped. His regimen of meds has since changed. Through all of this, my dad has shown resilience and courage that inspires everyone around him. He continues to fight every day, never losing hope or his positive spirit, even when facing challenges no one should have to endure.
If you know my dad, you know how hilarious, adventurous, enthusiastic and caring he is. He is a devoted father, friend, and brother. We are creating this fundraiser to show our love, care, and support for him as he goes through this difficult journey. The funds raised will go toward medical expenses, support for himself and our family, and alleviate any financial burdens he may feel during these hard times. Any donation big or small will be appreciated from the bottom of our hearts.
I truly appreciate the kindness and support and the time taken to read my dad’s story.
With heartfelt gratitude,
The Olson girls
Update 3/16/26: Douglas sadly passed away in his home with family. His battle was courageous. All donations will go to support the family and funeral expenses.
Organizer
