Fundraiser launched for Detroit legend Delano Smith's cancer treatment

A fundraiser has been launched to assist with the medical treatment of legendary Detroit DJ Delano Smith, who was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in 2022.

The crowdfunding campaign was set up by friends and family of Smith and looks to raise $250,000 towards medical bills that aren’t covered by insurance.

“In February 2022, Delano Smith’s doctors discovered a golf ball-sized metastatic cancer tumour growing in front of his heart,” reads the GoFundMe page set up by Smith’s family.

They explained that, despite the tumour being removed and further treatments of chemotherapy and radiation treatment, it had been unsuccessful.

“The cancer had spread to his lower back and diagnosed it as Thymic Carcinoma, a very rare form of unpredictable cancer that is difficult to contain and treat. He was sent back for more chemotherapy and radiation,” they explained.

The funds raised will go toward all of the medications that Smith is currently taking, as well as “experimental treatment methods” and specialist help for the rare condition, of which the assessments alone would cost “thousands of dollars”.

“[Medics] found that Delano’s current health insurance does not cover any out-of-network treatment, thus all costs would be out of pocket for treatment.”

Although Smith is experiencing “a lot of pain”, the Detroit DJ has had to take on a handful of gigs throughout the year to make up some of the medical payments, even though “the process of flying and performing has been extremely challenging”.

“Delano, his family, friends and colleagues who have come together to organise this fundraiser want to thank you for reading this and appreciate your generosity at this very difficult time. Any amount is greatly appreciated,” reads the GoFundMe page.

Contribute to Delano Smith’s lifesaving treatment here.

Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Editorial Assistant, follow her on Twitter