A fundraiser for the Herron family of Clarkston is set for 6 p.m.-midnight Friday, July 20, at Knights of Columbus, 5660 Maybee Road.
Mike Herron, 1976 graduate of Clarkston High School, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in October of 2004. It was considered inoperable at the time.
‘They said it was terminal ? there wasn’t much hope,? he said.
The tumor wasn’t large at first, but its location close to vital arteries caused complications. Three months of chemotherapy shrunk it to the point where a doctor was willing to risk whipple surgery, rerouting the digestive system around the tumor.
The treatment worked, until last August.
‘A CAT scan showed the tumor had spread to my liver,? he said.
An experimental laparoscope procedure failed, and chemotherapy directly on the tumor caused an infection that caused a fever lasting six weeks, through February and March.
The infection is gone now, but more bad news awaited ? the tumor returned, larger and spreading.
Because of his illness, he had to leave his job at Wint Funeral Home, nine years as family service director, losing insurance benefits. They spent their retirement savings. The family has been approved for government help, but it won’t kick in until October.
‘We’re relying on family and friends ? we just need to get to October,? he said.
His wife, Kathy, provides nursing care for her husband at home. His five brothers and sister are organizing the fundraiser, with help from the Knights of Columbus and others.
‘There has been an outpouring of support from people I don’t know who just came forward,? he said. ‘It’s just fantastic. I thank everyone for that. I wish I could do more for them.?
The event will include hot and cold hors d’oeuvres buffet, entertainment, cash bar, and silent auction, and raffle for a 42-inch LCD TV, and a 50/50 raffle. Tickets are $15. All proceeds go to the Herron family. For more information, call the Herrons at 248-625-7856.