Struggling with Cancer: Webster Football Coach Walks the Talk on the Field and off It
Scott Deuschle's Journey: A Fight Against Cancer and a Return to Football
Scott Deuschle, a well-respected high school football coach with 27 years of experience, is set to make a comeback after a challenging battle with head-and-neck cancer. The community of Webster, New York, is rallying behind him with a fundraiser at an upcoming game to benefit the Wilmot Cancer Institute.
Deuschle, who has been coaching at Webster Thomas High School since 2001, has been a pillar of the community since 1996. The fundraiser is being organised by Deuschle, the Webster Thomas Booster Club, Schroeder coach Mike Stumpf and his staff, and the Schroeder Booster Club.
Deuschle's fight began in 2022 when he underwent complex surgery followed by seven weeks of daily radiation treatment and chemotherapy. During this time, he consumed nutrients through pureed concoctions, refusing to have a feeding tube inserted. His determination was unwavering, and he found strength in the support of his close friend, Luis Ruffolo, a surgical resident at the University of Rochester Medical Center and former Webster Thomas football team captain.
Throughout his ordeal, Deuschle lost more than 40 pounds, but he remained resilient. He took time to enjoy the small things in life and live in the moment. This new perspective allowed him to reconnect with old friends and witness the birth of his first grandchild.
Today, Deuschle has a clean bill of health and is being closely monitored by his oncologist, Megan Baumgart, M.D. His care team also includes surgeons Joel Fontanarosa, M.D., Ph.D. and Luis Ruffolo, M.D., radiation oncologist Michael Cummings, M.D., and physician assistant Allison Gunderson, PA-C.
On Sept. 22, Thomas plays rival Webster Schroeder High School at 7 pm at Schroeder. This game will not only be a football match but also a celebration of Deuschle's courage and resilience. Many former players, parents, and community members have reached out to cheer him on.
Last year, a similar event took place and raised more than $1,100 for Wilmot. This year, the community hopes to surpass that amount and show their support for Deuschle in his journey.
For Deuschle, coaching is not just a job, it's what he enjoys in life. He is grateful for the opportunity to return to the field and continue making a positive impact on the lives of young athletes. His story serves as an inspiration to all, demonstrating the power of perseverance and the importance of community support.
- Scott Deuschle's fight against head-and-neck cancer, a medical condition, took a significant toll on him, resulting in a 40-pound weight loss.
- Despite his challenging journey with cancer, Deuschle found solace in the world of health-and-wellness, focusing on small moments of joy and taking time to witness the birth of his first grandchild.
- The power of sports analysis comes into play as Deuschle plans his comeback, with a crucial football match against Webster Schroeder High School scheduled on Sept 22nd.
- Deuschle's return to football, a part of the fitness-and-exercise and sports realm, is not just personal, but also a testament to his resilience and the unwavering support of his community.
- The European leagues might soon have a new inspiration for perseverance, as Deuschle's journey, starting from the Premier League in Webster, New York, serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the importance of community support in health and wellness.