Nearly one month after Chris Sluman’s leukemia diagnosis, community support in North Bay remains strong, with fundraisers and donations continuing for his family
Financial support for a North Bay family facing an aggressive leukemia diagnosis continues to climb nearly a month after the medical crisis began.
A GoFundMe for Chris Sluman has reached $115,699 as of Friday, Feb. 6. The fundraiser was launched around Jan. 9 by staff at Parkside Animal Hospital, where his wife, Hailey Bertrand-Sluman, works as a veterinarian. The fundraiser is helping cover treatment expenses the family says are not covered by OHIP.
The rising total comes as Sluman undergoes intensive chemotherapy in Sudbury, with more treatment ahead.
In an update earlier this week, Bertrand-Sluman reflected on both the medical challenges and the ongoing response from the community.
“Though it won’t stop me from trying, the continued outpouring of love and help even a month after diagnosis is absolutely astounding,” she wrote. “You all have helped us feel so very cared for.”
See: Leukemia diagnosis sparks outpouring of support for North Bay family
She says the past month has brought a new understanding of cancer treatment.
“I had no idea what aggressive chemo looked like a month ago,” she explained. “I have learned a lot.”
Bertrand-Sluman says the physical toll on her husband as his immune system remains suppressed.
“Chris is still about the same. His WBC (white blood cell count) is still very low (which have been assured is normal and better than if it came back too fast),” she wrote.
See: Fundraiser planned for North Bay dad facing $575K leukemia treatment
She says he is sleeping most of the day as his body recovers from treatment.
“When he is awake, it takes all he has to stand long enough to shower or stay awake long enough to eat,” she described, noting he has not recently experienced nausea or pain.
The family is now home in North Bay temporarily as they await next steps in Sluman’s treatment. Bertrand-Sluman told BayToday Friday afternoon they are home for one week. Sluman is expected to begin the next phase of drug treatment.
She added that he remains highly immunocompromised and unable to have visitors.
She says the family is also seeking help from drug companies as costs remain a concern.
“We were very excited to hear that ponatinib will be discounted 30 per cent (so $253 a day instead of $330),” she wrote in the update.
She pointed to moments with their daughter as a source of strength.
“We live for Briar’s visits and the artwork, snuggles, and entertainment,” she added.
See: How North Bay continues to help a local man fight aggressive blood cancer
Two community fundraisers are also planned this month.
A “Night of Community and Support” dinner and silent auction is set for Feb. 20 at Churchill’s Prime Rib House, with proceeds going to the family. It’s being organized by Steve and Mark Deacon, with Deacon Wealth Management.
Tickets are $250 per plate. Deacon says their business will cover the meal, so the entire fee goes directly to the family. To E-transfer, email Mark at [email protected]. Payments can also be made at the door. Space is limited to 100 seats. Deacon says confirm your attendance by emailing [email protected] or texting (416) 805-7482.
While the other fundraiser, “Stand With Sluman,” takes place Feb. 21 at Gateway City Brewery, featuring live music, trivia, and a silent auction. Entry is $20, with proceeds going directly to support the Sluman family.
The GoFundMe continues to accept donations to help cover treatment costs, travel, and lost income as Sluman’s care continues. Visit the donation page here.