MINNEAPOLIS — It would be hard to find a better ambassador in the fight against cancer than former Minnesota Gophers placeholder Casey O'Brien.
First diagnosed with a tumor in his left knee at age 14, O'Brien was told he would never play football again. He didn't blink, getting a full knee replacement and returning to the field, eventually playing in the Big Ten Conference. Every time his osteosarcoma would return, Casey would face surgeries, chemo and immunotherapy treatments, and pick up where he left off.
As KARE 11 has documented through the years of his battle, Casey hasn't just overcome his own obstacles — he has helped others tackle theirs. Through fundraising, countless hospital visits with cancer patients, and raising awareness, O'Brien has been a warrior in the sometimes overwhelming fight against Cancer.
Now, Casey O'Brien needs your help. He shared in a GoFundMe post this week that cancer has invaded his body again, confirmed to be present in his lung, liver and lower back.
"It's not like I haven't heard 'your cancer's back'," Casey said.
O'Brien explained that because he has endured so many bouts of cancer, most traditional options for treatment have been exhausted and the alternative — one he wants to pursue — are cutting-edge procedures that are not covered by his insurance.
"We have a great plan in place, but it is not going to be cheap," O'Brien explained in his GoFundMe post. "Our spirits are high as we head into these new opportunities, and my family and I would truly appreciate any help we can get."
"This is a difficult ask for us," O'Brien continued. "No words can express our gratitude and appreciation for your willingness to help. You all have given us strength and optimism each time we have been hit with difficult news and we are relying on that again. I look forward to being a success story soon!"
The GoFundMe account was originally set up with a goal of $250,000, but was quickly eclipsed as donors across Minnesota and the country stepped up to help the young man who has himself helped so many. Many of the gifts were accompanied by personal, heartfelt messages for recovery.
KFAN's Power Trip morning show ask viewers to jump in and help donate, many of the comments on the GoFundMe include #powertrip.
"Donating in honor of our angel Gianna… sending all our thoughts and love. Casey, you are a hero," wrote Hayley McKeon.
"Keep fighting, bro! My 16-yo daughter has been battling cancer since she was five and we understand the battle," shared Jeremy Kardong.
"We are cheering you on Casey and sending you strength, bravery and optimism. Stay positive!," urged the Sherels family.
The outpouring is a testament to O'Brien's positivity and impact on the greater community. If you'd like to help, you can donate here.
