Thank you for visiting my personal fundraising page for this year's Dempsey Challenge!

The Dempsey Challenge is the premiere fundraising event for the Dempsey Center, a nonprofit founded by actor Patrick Dempsey. The Dempsey Center makes life better for people impacted by cancer by easing the side effects of cancer by improving their physical, emotional, social, familial, and functional well-being at any point in their cancer journey--all at no cost.

I became a client at the Dempsey Center shortly after completing my second course of treatment for squamous cell carcinoma, which began in my throat in 2017. Through a rigorous regimen of chemotherapy and radiation, I was able to triumph.

However, seven years later, the cancer returned aggressively, this time attacking my lungs. In early summer of 2024, I was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer that had metastasized from my throat. I underwent six rounds of an intensive three-drug chemotherapy cocktail over the course of 18 weeks. This treatment came with many side effects—I was often sick, extremely weak, and developed neuropathy in my hands and feet.

The programs offered by the Dempsey Center have been an invaluable part of my recovery. I have participated in Tai Chi, Qigong, and acupuncture, all of which have significantly improved my balance and helped alleviate the numbness and tingling in my hands and feet caused by neuropathy. Just as importantly, these practices have helped reduce the mental and emotional stress that often accompanies a cancer diagnosis.

The Dempsey Center has truly been a lifeline during my journey, offering both physical healing and emotional support.

With a donation made to my page, you can help support thousands of cancer patients, survivors, care partners, and their loved ones. Gifts of any amount will provide no-cost support for years to come.

Thank you for your support!