Tom & Cheryl are fighting their own cancers

Cindie Dodero and Claudia Rogozinski are organizing this fundraiser for

Tom Elder and Cheryl Elder

On behalf of our sister Cheryl and brother-in-law Tom, we are reaching out for support for two of our most precious family members. We were devastated when we first heard Tom was diagnosed with cancer and to find out months later Cheryl would be fighting her own battle.

Here is their story.

In May of 2022, Tom was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, cancer of the bone marrow. There is no cure for this type of cancer, but with lifetime treatment, the hope is for remission. It started with what appeared to be joint neck pain which persisted for months until doctors could pinpoint it to a golf size tumor between two disks in his neck. He underwent radiation to shrink the tumor in his neck, so he now has limited mobility. He continues to undergo treatments in preparation for an intensified chemotherapy treatment at UCLA that he will be undergoing alone for a month without his soulmate Cheryl.

In March this year, Cheryl received the devastating news that she had breast cancer. Unbeknownst to her, she did not know she had a problem until her cat pounced on her in bed one day and caused pain in the area that was a tumor. A biopsy resulted in the lump being malignant. With the doctor’s diagnosis and concern, Cheryl quickly got started on chemotherapy. Radiation and surgery will soon follow.

Tom and Cheryl are fighters. They’re dealing with this life-changing challenge with positivity, grace, and perseverance. They’ve dedicated their lives to their family and friends, continuously extending a helping hand whenever anyone is in need. They continue to give themselves to others even though they are going through their trials. Now, it’s our turn to lend a hand and help them in this challenging time.

The funds raised will help them cover medical expenses not covered by insurance, ongoing treatments, medications, and day-to-day living costs as they go through this challenging time. Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference. If you cannot donate, your prayers and words of encouragement will be greatly appreciated.

Together, we can help Tom and Cheryl focus on healing and recovery, not the financial burden accompanying cancer treatment. They are facing the biggest fight of their lives, and your generosity and kindness will help lighten their load.

Thank you so much for your time, support, and generosity.

I will keep this page updated with their journey and progress.

Cindie Dodero and Claudia Rogozinski