By TARA CONNOLLY
Staff writer
Three years ago the Decker family, parishioners of St. Jane Frances de Chantal, Easton, set out to help their father, Dr. Gene Decker, care for his patients.
As medical director of the St. Luke’s/Warren Hospital Family Medicine Residency Program and the Physician’s Assistant Program at DeSales University, Center Valley, Dr. Decker developed a special interest in blood cancers and a special bond with his patients battling specific cancers like leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma.
Since the formation of Team Decker, the family is part of “Team in Training,” that raises funds in support of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS). The mission of LLS is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families.
Team Decker includes his wife, Debra, and their children, Eric, 29, and his companion Alyssa Saggio, 26; Dylan, 27, and his wife, Stephanie.
Except for Debra, the family will run its third Disney World Half Marathon Saturday, Jan. 12, 2019 in Disney World, Orlando for Team in Training and the LLS to raise money to fight blood cancers.
“All our fundraising donations go directly to Lehigh Valley blood cancer patients to help with any type of care and also research into blood cancer treatment that has led to more cures each year,” said Dr. Decker.
Overall, the team has raised $43,759 with fundraising events like 5K walks/races, Tricky Trays, cookie sales, dinner events with local restaurants, and lots of emails to friends and family.
The team is confident it will surpass last year’s fundraising total of $16,606 and has raised $14,860 to date.
“We have over 100 patients, some deceased and many survivors to whom we dedicate our run in Disney,” said Dr. Decker.
One cancer patient that benefits from the proceeds is Erin Boyle DeWatt, mother of two cross country runners at St. Jane and two-time lymphoma survivor.
“Erin is an avid runner also. She is an inspiration to Team Decker,” said Dr. Decker.
“This cause was originally my passion because of my special relationship with my patients. I can proudly say it is my family’s passion now with everyone working so hard for the blood cancer patients. I am so thankful God has led me down this path,” he said.
To make a donation, visit the LLS secure website.
