Funds being raised for Barclay Brook custodian
By: Rebecca Tokarz
MONROE The community is banding together to help cancer sufferer and Barclay Brook School head custodian John Colgate.
Mr. Colgate’s family is trying to raise money for the 37-year-old, who has been out of work since last March when he was first diagnosed with germ cell cancer that affects the lungs.
"I can’t cure him and I can’t pay his bills," said sister Lisa Nelson.
However, she said, she will do anything she can to help her brother during their time of need.
His family held a dinner benefit in his honor Jan. 25 at the Spotswood Knights of Columbus. More than 200 guests gathered for a night of dinner, dancing and music. All of the proceeds from the benefit will go to Mr. Colgate, a Hamilton resident who has worked in the Monroe Township School District for 22 years, and his family.
Mr. Colgate’s cancer has spread since he was diagnosed with adenovarcinoma and neuroendocrine last fall, two incurable forms of cancer that affect the cells, in addition to the germ cell cancer, Ms. Nelson said.
Earlier this month, Mr. Colgate had a tumor removed from his spine. He has regained feeling in his toes and legs, said Ms. Nelson. The family is awaiting test results being done on the tumor.
Mr. Colgate was unable to attend the benefit, because his physicians would not allow him to leave the hospital. He will remain hospitalized for another two weeks before he begins physical therapy to learn to walk again.
"His spirits are wonderful," Ms. Nelson said.
Over the last couple of months, Mr. Colgate’s family solicited local businesses for monetary or gift certificate donations to be used during the 50/50 raffles held during the evening.
Approximately 270 guests gathered at the Knights of Columbus and danced the night away to the tunes of "Two Days Notice," a rock and roll band in which Ms. Nelson’s husband, Jeff, plays.
Ms. Nelson said she went into the event with the goal of raising about $10,000.
Her dreams were surpassed by leaps and bounds as members of the community, Mr. Colgate’s co-workers and school board members, showed up for a night of dancing and fun.
"It was fun," she said. "My goal was exceeded by double that. I can’t believe the amount of outpouring we received."
Ms. Nelson said she spoke with her brother after the benefit, and he said he wanted to extend a huge "thank you" to all those who came to support the cause.
"John said he was forever grateful," Ms. Nelson said.
Ms. Nelson said that although some supporters could not attend the event, many sent donations via mail. Since the announcement of the benefit came out, she said she has been inundated with phone calls.
"The shortest phone call I had was 20 minutes," she said, adding that many times she got off the phone crying.
The family is still accepting donations. For more information or to donate, contact Ms. Nelson at (732) 521-0025.

