Community rallies behind cancer patient

QUINCY, Mich. (NEWSCHANNEL 3) - An avid West Michigan hunter is finding himself in some new territory after being diagnosed with testicular cancer.

26-year-old Cory Tappenden was diagnosed last Thursday and had surgery five days later. He doesn't have any insurance and wasn't sure how he could pay for his medical bills. That's when the small community of Reading rallied behind Tappenden to help him with those bills.

About 40 people hit the woods on Saturday in Hillsdale County for a 3-D bow shoot benefit to raise money for Tappenden.

Tappenden is a bow hunter but since the surgery, he can't pull back any weight. He greeted people on a golf cart through the trails, showing his appreciation for their kindness.

The event collected money through donations, raffles and food. They raised $1,600 all together. Tappenden doesn't know what his treatment is yet so he's not sure how much it will cost but he said this will definitely help.

Another benefit is set for October 12 at Bob Evans in Coldwater. 15 percent of the proceeds from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. will go to help pay Tappenden's bills.