Don’s Story

Site created on December 13, 2018

Welcome to Don's CaringBridge website. We are using it to keep family and friends updated in one place and to coordinate help for Don and Kelly. We appreciate your support and words of hope and encouragement.  During a hospital visit on Oct. 25 prompted by Don feeling numb on his right side, Don and Kelly found out that Don has several tumors -- confirmed as melanoma -- including one in his brain, two in his lungs and one on his adrenal gland.

He's already had surgery and is now undergoing immunotherapy using two different drugs to treat the tumors in his lungs and on his adrenal gland. Depending on how he responds, the immunotherapy could last months to years. The side effects can be serious, and they will have to monitor his liver and kidney functions to make sure the drugs don’t cause his immune system to attack those organs. 


During this difficult time, they can use some help from friends and family. The biggest need on the food front is just grocery basics about twice a week, like eggs, milk, fruit. They will also need help with Tessa, getting her from school or activities when Don is in appointments or having her over for playdates. We will update the calendar with details and let you know how you can help.

Newest Update

REMINDER - Please RSVP to Don's Celebration of Life Aug. 7

Journal entry by Kelly Zito —

Hello all - I hope your summer is off to a great start! A reminder to please RSVP at the link below if you can make it to Don's Celebration of Life on Aug. 7. We're trying to get a solid headcount for the rental space and taco truck. I've included the original post here for reference. Thanks again for all of your support and I hope to see many of you next month. xoxo -Kelly, Tessa and Maxine

If you knew Don, laughed with him, complained with him, or were the subject of one of his cartoons, please join us for a celebration of his life on Sunday, Aug. 7, 4-6 p.m. at Good Neighbor, 4200 Piedmont Ave in Oakland. Please RSVP at tinyurl.com/bdwcrmnu. Email or text Tanya Schevitz at tschevitz@gmail.com or 415-298-5532 with any questions.  
Read More of the journal titled "REMINDER - Please RSVP to Don's Celebration of Life Aug. 7"
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Don Stay Connected to Family and Friends

A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Don's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?

Leave a comment of support for Don

Did you know? A quick comment, no matter the situation (positive or negative), can boost morale by 28.2%.

Comments Hide comments

Read More Journal Entries

Show Your Support

See the Ways to Help page to get even more involved.

Personal Fundraiser
Support Links
Helpful Requests
Go to Ways to Help
SVG_Icons_Back_To_Top
Top