The Skeeter Strong Foundation is proud to announce that more than $16,000 was raised during a recent community fundraising event held in support of Preston, a local volunteer firefighter and EMT who is currently battling recurring Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
The event brought together friends, families, first responders, local businesses, and community members from across Sussex County, all united by a shared goal: supporting one of their own.
Preston is a 2022 graduate of Sussex Central High School and has been dedicated to serving the community for years. Since 2019, he has volunteered with the Lewes Fire Company, answering calls and helping others in their moments of greatest need. Recently, he expanded that commitment by earning his EMT certification, continuing to pursue his passion for helping people.
In February 2025, Preston was diagnosed with recurring Hodgkin’s lymphoma and began treatment shortly afterward. After months of courage and perseverance, he completed care in November 2025. Tragically, just one month later, in December, the cancer returned.
Despite this devastating setback, Preston has continued to face the fight ahead with remarkable strength and resilience. In the coming weeks, he will begin another intensive round of treatment, which will include repeated hospital stays at UPenn, extended treatment cycles, and significant medical expenses.
The Skeeter Strong Foundation organized the fundraiser to help ease some of that burden and to remind Preston and his family that they are not facing this battle alone.
“We are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming support shown by our community,” said representatives from the Skeeter Strong Foundation. “Seeing so many people come together to support Preston is a powerful reminder of what makes this community special.”
The foundation would like to extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, donated, volunteered, and helped spread the word, as well as the local sponsors whose generosity made the event possible. Their support played a vital role in the success of the fundraiser and will directly help Preston as he begins the next stage of treatment.
Most importantly, the Skeeter Strong Foundation sends its continued support and strength to Preston and his family.
“This is where our community shows up,” the foundation shared. “And once again, Sussex County proved just how strong it truly is.”
For more information about the Skeeter Strong Foundation or future events supporting community members in need, please follow the foundation’s social media pages.
