Update Oct. 27:
Funds continue to pour in to support the family of a Vernon man who succumbed to a brain tumour this week.
Ian Baker was diagnosed with a life-threatening brain tumour in September. According to a GoFundMe page that was set up for him by his sister in law that month, Baker passed away on Wednesday.
More than $26,500 has been raised to date, and with Baker’s passing, the campaign has transitioned into a memorial fund for the family.
“Although Ian remained optimistic and was determined to completely heal up to these final days, we are deeply saddened to share that Ian passed away this morning,” sister-in-law Raven Zeller wrote on the GoFundMe page Oct. 26.
“Our hearts are aching for all who love Ian and those who knew him.”
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Original:
Funds are flowing in for a Vernon man who was diagnosed with a life-threatening brain tumour last month.
Ian Baker was twice admitted to Vernon Jubilee Hospital to undergo tests in early September, and on Sept. 14 he received the diagnosis of a malignant brain tumour that has spread to his spine.
Within moments of being diagnosed, Baker was taken by ambulance to the Kelowna airport and flown to Vancouver. He underwent emergency brain and spine surgery at Vancouver General Hospital and is now back at VJH.
Baker’s sister-in-law Raven Zeller started a GoFundMe campaign to support Baker and his family in his time of crisis.
“Ian is a beloved son, brother, uncle and friend. In the time I’ve come to know him as family, the warmth of his heart and kindness of his soul is what surrounds him. He is truly an incredible man who really needs our help,” Zeller said.
Baker and his wife Jenny Zeller needed to cover a multitude of expenses, including medical costs, medical-related travel and accommodation for his wife to be with him in Vancouver, on top of the usual household bills as Baker goes through surgery, treatments and now recovery.
“Anything that can be shared to assist we are truly grateful. Kindly please share this call for support with as many people in Ian’s community as possible as I know he has touched the lives of many.”
The GoFundMe page has raised more than $26,000 towards its goal of $30,000.
“Too many people are praying for me and I’m not done by a long shot,” Ian said.
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