Dear Friends & Family,

For those we haven’t yet had the chance to connect with personally, we want to share that Dan has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. His spirits remain high, and true to who he is, Dan is facing this challenge with remarkable strength and unwavering determination.

As you can imagine, this will be a deeply difficult time for Dan, Debbie, and their entire family. Dan has always been a steady source of strength, humility, and leadership in our community—and now it's our turn to stand beside him and Deb with that same love and commitment.

We will continue to share updates and keep Dan’s support community informed about meaningful ways to help and uplift him and his family throughout this journey. Your prayers, kindness, and encouragement mean more now than ever.

04/02/2025
Dan began chemotherapy today, spending four hours at the infusion center alongside Debbie. He is now carrying a pump that will administer chemo medication over the next 24 hours.

Dan handled the day like a true champion. We ask that you please continue to keep Dan and Debbie in your thoughts and prayers as they face this journey with courage and faith.

Thank you for your support, and may God bless you all.

April 16th, 2025by Carrie Grace, Organizer

Quick Update (4/16/25):
Dan is certainly "Danning"—he’s in great spirits and giving this cancer one of the toughest fights it’s ever seen. This morning, he completed his second round of chemo and feels better prepared to face the effects of treatment moving forward.

Dan serves as a counselor for the McKeon Education Group and was placed at St. Adalbert School in Cleveland, a place he often describes as “food for his soul.” He truly believes he was meant to be there. Now more than ever, he says he feels incredibly grateful to be part of the St. Adalbert community—he’s found his home.

Though today marks the last day before the school heads into break, Dan has remained committed to showing up for his students as much as he is able to. Monday was rough, but by Tuesday, feeling a little stronger, Dan made his way back to St. Adalbert—a place he says re-energizes and grounds him. Even unsteady on his feet, he continues to give his all.

We’ve been so encouraged by the love and support pouring in—especially the incredible participation in the Waitkus Strong t-shirt fundraiser through St. Adalbert! Your enthusiasm means the world. Be on the lookout for our next wave of #WaitkusStrong swag—it’s another great way to show your support and keep Dan’s spirit going strong.

Much of Dan’s treatment is not covered by insurance and is being paid out of pocket. Any support to help him keep fighting in the way he knows best is deeply appreciated.

Please continue to lift up Dan, Deb, and their family in your prayers.

#WaitkusStrong

April 29th, 2025by Carrie Grace, Organizer

Hello #WaitkusStrong Supporters,

Dan will undergo his third round of chemotherapy this Wednesday. This past week has been especially difficult for him, as he’s been experiencing a lot of discomfort. While Dan continues to show incredible strength and determination, this journey is becoming increasingly challenging to navigate.

One of Dan’s greatest sources of strength is being able to go into work at St. Adalbert and spend time with the students he loves so much. Lately, his health has made this more difficult, which has been a source of frustration for him.

Please continue to keep Dan in your prayers as he enters this next round of treatment. Your encouragement and support mean more than words can express.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has contributed to supporting Dan and his family financially so far. If you would like to continue helping, here are additional ways to show your support:

-Purchase #WaitkusStrong Support Swag – 100% of proceeds go directly to Dan’s fight against pancreatic cancer. Click here to explore support swag: https://grace-institute-and-co.printify.me/

-Reach out to Dan – A quick message or word of encouragement can lift his spirits in powerful ways.

-Secure Programming through VitalPath Initiative – https://www.vitalpathinitiative.org

If you are a school leader or affiliated with a school, consider partnering with us.

For every contract created between now and June 30, Grace Education Institute will make a financial contribution to #WaitkusStrong.

For every Operation Flashpoint Program contracted, GEI will donate $500 to #WaitkusStrong.

We are truly stronger together, and we want Dan to feel the immense love and support surrounding him during this difficult time.

God bless, and thank you again for standing with Dan.
#WaitkusStrong