Fundraiser to Support Ken Bland’s Battle with Stage 4 Cancer

A fundraising event is scheduled for Saturday, September 6, 2023, to support Ken Bland, a resident of Crystal Lake who is currently battling Stage 4 cancer. Bland was diagnosed in 2023 with ampullary adenocarcinoma, a rare form of gastrointestinal cancer. Following surgery and chemotherapy, he experienced a period of remission lasting over a year. However, in June, the cancer metastasized, leading to a poor prognosis and the commencement of palliative chemotherapy.

The financial burden of treatment has become overwhelming for Bland and his family. His wife, Sheri Bland, highlighted that many expenses are not covered by insurance, including experimental immunotherapy. To alleviate some of these costs, the family is hosting a fundraiser from 18:00 to 21:00 at Shiloh Church, located at 3419 Walkup Road in Crystal Lake.

This event promises to be an entertaining evening, featuring a lineup of acts aimed at providing a “night of laughs.” Performers include magician and humorist John Hopkins, comedian and filmmaker Matt Sommerfield, and Chicago comedy all-star and emcee Ken Sevara. The fundraiser will also have a raffle, adding to the excitement of the night.

Tickets for the event are priced at $35 and can be purchased at the door using exact cash, check, Venmo, Zelle, or credit card through a third-party vendor. For those who prefer to buy online, tickets are available for $39.19, which includes fees, on eventbrite.com by searching for “Ken Bland Comedy Benefit.”

In addition to the fundraising event, Sheri Bland and a family friend have established a GoFundMe campaign to further support Ken’s medical treatment. The online fundraiser can be found at gofundme.com/f/support-kens-lifesaving-treatment.

The community’s support is crucial for the Bland family during this difficult time, as they navigate the challenges of Ken’s illness and the associated financial strain.