Chicago Community Supports Resident Battling Leukemia

A GoFundMe campaign has raised over $80,000 for a 61-year-old Chicago resident facing mounting medical costs.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Philanthropy

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of silhouetted hands against a simplified Chicago skyline, representing communal support during medical hardship. — A Chicago community fundraising campaign has successfully raised over $80,000 to assist resident Dean Schlabowske with his mounting medical expenses for leukemia treatment. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

In September 2026, 61-year-old Chicago resident Dean Schlabowske was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. A fundraising effort has since secured over $80,000 to help cover medical expenses exceeding six digits.

Why it matters

Schlabowske is unable to work while undergoing chemotherapy and requires upcoming open heart surgery to repair a weak heart valve. The donations provide critical relief against high costs, including an annual insurance deductible of $10,000.

The GoFundMe campaign successfully surpassed its $65,000 initial fundraising goal to reach $80,000 as of October 2026. These funds address costs for a patient managing an annual medical insurance deductible of $10,000.

The players

Dean Schlabowske

He is a 61-year-old Chicago resident currently undergoing treatment for Acute Myeloid Leukemia and a heart condition.

The details

Schlabowske sought medical help after suffering from persistent fatigue, nausea, and shortness of breath before receiving his diagnosis. He currently travels weekly to Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge for ongoing chemotherapy treatments.

Dean Schlabowske received his leukemia diagnosis in September 2026.
Donations exceeded the $65,000 goal in October 2026.

Market Landscape

This fundraising effort reflects a broader shift where private crowdfunding platforms increasingly serve as a primary financial safety net for patients. It highlights how community-based philanthropy has become an essential mechanism for covering high medical costs not met by insurance.

For residents facing similar healthcare burdens, the campaign underscores the importance of checking policy coverage for large surgical procedures. Families should review their annual deductibles to prepare for potential out-of-pocket medical financial spikes.

The takeaway

When unexpected health crises arise, transparent fundraising can provide essential support for families managing high deductibles and lost income. Patients are encouraged to communicate their needs early to allow local networks to assist effectively.