The Walking Dead Star Erik Jensen Battles Stage 4 Colorectal Cancer; Support Needed
By Ankita Tripathy
26 October, 2023
News
Erik Jensen, best known for his role as Dr. Steven Edwards in season 5 of the hit series The Walking Dead, is facing a challenging battle against stage 4 colorectal cancer. The news of his diagnosis has stirred emotions, but with unwavering hope and determination, he, alongside his wife Jessica Blank, is gearing up for a fierce fight against this advanced form of cancer.
Erik Jensen’s journey took an unexpected turn as he confronted this formidable adversary. Following a brain aneurysm survival early in 2022, the actor now faces an entirely new battle. His stage 4 cancer diagnosis indicates that the disease has reached an advanced stage and has spread to various areas of his body, including his liver.
Despite the tough road ahead, Jensen’s supporters remain optimistic about his future. In a heartfelt GoFundMe campaign created by his wife, Jessica Blank, it was revealed that Erik, at 53, is displaying remarkable resilience. He’s diligently working on a film project even during chemotherapy and continues his full-time roles as a director and writer.
According to the GoFundMe page, Erik’s medical team believes there is a chance to shrink the tumors significantly, enabling him to undergo two crucial surgeries to remove them entirely. The outpouring of support from friends, fans, and well-wishers is instrumental in their fight.
Erik Jensen and Jessica Blank share a deep bond as a married couple of 23 years. Their shared creative endeavors have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. Notably, in 2017, they co-directed the film Almost Home, adapted from Jessica’s novel of the same name. In 2020, they co-wrote two plays, Coal Country and The Line, both premiering at The Public Theater in New York City.
Now, the couple faces the most challenging project of their lives, as they strive to combat Erik’s illness while providing care and stability for their 13-year-old daughter, Sadie. Their touching family portrait adorns their GoFundMe page, symbolizing the love and strength that binds them together.
The GoFundMe campaign aims to raise $300,000 to support Erik’s medical treatment, sustain their home, and provide a stable environment for their family during this tumultuous time. The contributions from generous donors will play a pivotal role in easing the financial burden that accompanies such a medical battle.
The Walking Dead community has also rallied behind Erik Jensen. Scott Gimple, the franchise’s chief content officer, shared a link to the fundraiser and called for support, emphasizing the uncertainty that Erik and his family face. Jeffrey Dean Morgan, who portrays Negan in the series, echoed the sentiments, emphasizing the need for assistance.
The GoFundMe campaign concludes with a message of hope for Erik’s recovery, highlighting the importance of the young family and the valuable work that Erik has yet to contribute to the world. The strength and resilience displayed by Jessica Blank, who takes on multiple roles, from caregiver to artist and mother, are a testament to the family’s unwavering spirit.
Erik’s journey is marked by bravery, and the outpouring of support from the community reflects the shared hope for a brighter, healthier future. Donations are not just a financial contribution; they are a demonstration of love, unity, and belief in the power of togetherness during life’s most challenging moments.
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