Tony Giovengo's Cancer Treatment and Recovery

Hello, this is Jill. I’m asking for your help to raise funds for the Tony Giovengo family. His wife, Dana, is our lovely friend and colleague who has provided care for Tony throughout this journey.

Tony was diagnosed with Stage 3 throat cancer in June of this year. After initial extensive tests and exploratory surgery, Tony underwent daily radiation for 7 weeks while simultaneously receiving chemotherapy, all without missing one day of work. Tony would drive himself from Minden to Shreveport early each morning for radiation and then back to Minden to report to his job. On days when he received chemotherapy, Dana would go with him but he still returned to work immediately afterward.

Unfortunately, upon completing his regimen of treatments, Tony’s recovery hasn’t gone as anticipated. He’s lost 90 pounds since June. Yesterday (Tuesday, Nov. 2nd) he underwent an additional surgery to place a feeding tube and conduct another swallow study. This was a very tough surgery for Tony because of his already-weakened condition.

Unbelievably, this sweet family has shouldered all the financial burden of Tony’s illness on their own. Tony’s and Dana’s employers have both offered them time off work, but out of sense of loyalty and an unbelievable work ethic, they have both continued to work throughout their devastating situation.

Tony is not currently physically able to work and has used all of his company’s paid medical leave. Tony and Dana need our help to assist with expenses such as co-pays and travel to and from Shreveport for appointments. They found out yesterday that the formula required for Tony’s feeding tube treatments are not covered by their Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance policy and there may be other unanticipated expenses added to their plate moving forward.

I know so many people love and care for Tony, Dana, and their girls, Chloe, Brantlie, and Caitlyn, and want to help. Anything you can give will make a difference.