Our Story
Our story begins in June of 2019.
Upon making our way to our cottage in Michigan, Tom was involved in a very serious and scary single car accident. His car was totaled and while thankfully no one else was injured, we were all confused about what had happened. We soon learned that tumors on his brain had caused pressure that resulted in serious seizures. We found out shortly after that he had been suffering from side effects of Glioblastoma—a very aggressive and fast growing form of brain cancer.
This awful diagnosis was met with more confusion and lots of frustration about the lack of information, support, and research around this type of “rare” cancer.
Enter Head for the Cure.
Our involvement with this wonderful organization began when we found a flier for a 5K at one of Tom’s appointments. The committee of passionate, hard working, and dedicated humans quickly became a point of support for us in our cancer journey.
Sadly, Tom passed away less than five months after his diagnosis and it has become our mission ever since to support patients and families who still continue their fight against this terrible disease. The money we raise is donated to Head for the Cure in an effort to bring awareness to the need for more research to find a cure and support patients along the way.
Thank you for being here.
His name was Tom Swanger, and by wolves he was raised.
He could fix anything in sight, which left us amazed.
Born in New Jersey, growing up with the Kanes And his two older sisters, the leaders of all games.
Traveling the world, in the Coast Guard he served,
Learning new skills, meeting new people, earning the Honorable Discharge he deserved.
A life full of happiness led him to Kalamazoo,
Where he met Julie Ray and the two soon said "I do".
Raising three girls made them a fun family of five,
But adding a dog made him the happiest man alive.
Summers at the cottage spent out on the lake,
Sunset cruises, jet ski rides, and the memories we did make.
Every moment in our house was filled with great laughter,
Neighborhood parties, coffee table dancing, and reminiscing after.
Tom has led an incredible life full of family and friends,
And just like his wedding ring, our memories of him will never end.