10/17/2026
Eric and the Gilcris family are part of the local spirit here in Southern VT-of a strong culture of mutual support through grassroots organizations, local networks, and everyday community action. If you don't know Eric, or his family--check out his story below. He was a GM grad in 2001. He has had an incredible impact on the fight against cancer, and is facing his 2nd battle and needs your help. We have all been touched by cancer in some way-Help Eric and his family kick its butt once again, and then I'm sure will continue to raise money for future survivors.
For nearly 15 years, Eric Gilcris has been an inspiration to his family, friends, and the Vermont community. Now, as he faces the return of brain cancer, it's our turn to stand beside a man who has dedicated so much of his life to helping others.
In 2011, Eric Gilcris, a South Burlington, Vermont resident, husband, and father, received a devastating diagnosis: Grade 4 glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive forms of brain cancer. Given an initial prognosis of just 6–12 months, Eric and his family were suddenly faced with an unimaginable challenge and an uncertain future.
But Eric defied the odds.
Through medical treatment, remarkable determination, and the unwavering love and support of his family, Eric went on to do something extraordinary. He survived nearly 15 years beyond a diagnosis that initially offered little hope.
What makes Eric's journey truly remarkable, however, isn't simply how long he has survived. It's what he has chosen to do with those years.
In 2014, Eric and his wife, Anna, founded Cancer Canknot, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by cancer while raising awareness and critical funding for cancer research.
Rather than allowing his diagnosis to define his life, Eric turned his personal experience into a mission to help others: hosting charity golf events throughout the state, spreading cancer awareness, and even authoring a children's book!
Through countless hours of dedication, fundraising events, community partnerships, and the generosity of supporters, Cancer Canknot has helped raise more than $100,000 for cancer research.
For more than a decade, Eric and Anna have demonstrated what it truly means to turn personal adversity into something positive for others.
They have been a source of inspiration, encouragement, and hope for countless individuals and families navigating their own cancer journeys.
After nearly 15 years of defying the odds, Eric's tumor has returned.
On October 13, 2026, Eric underwent surgery to remove a portion of the tumor. His medical team is now conducting genetic testing to better understand the tumor and determine the most appropriate course of treatment moving forward.
While Eric and his family await these important results, they are once again facing a difficult and uncertain road ahead.
The coming weeks and months will undoubtedly bring new challenges, medical decisions, and the physical, emotional, and financial pressures that accompany a serious cancer diagnosis.
Through it all, Eric continues to demonstrate the same strength, courage, and determination that have defined his remarkable journey.
But even the strongest among us need the support of others.
For years, Eric has been there for people facing their darkest moments. Now, it's our turn to be there for him.
This GoFundMe has been established to support Eric, Anna, Bryce and Erica as they navigate the challenges ahead.
Funds raised will help ease the financial burden associated with Eric's medical treatment, ongoing care, travel for medical appointments, recovery, and related expenses.
The hope is to provide Eric and his family with some peace of mind, allowing them to focus their energy on his health, treatment, and spending meaningful time together without the added stress of financial uncertainty.
In keeping with Eric's remarkable generosity and lifelong commitment to helping others affected by cancer, any donations not applied directly to Eric's treatment, care, and associated expenses will be donated to cancer research.
For more than a decade, Eric and Anna have dedicated themselves to making a difference through Cancer Canknot. It is only fitting that the generosity shown to Eric and his family will also have the opportunity to continue that mission.
One of the greatest things about living in Vermont is how our communities come together when someone needs a helping hand.
Eric and Anna have spent years demonstrating that spirit of compassion and generosity. They have given their time, energy, and hearts to helping others, often while carrying the weight of their own family's cancer journey.
Whether you know Eric personally, have supported Cancer Canknot, have been touched by his incredible story, or simply want to help a family facing a difficult challenge, we appreciate the support.
Eric has spent nearly 15 years showing us the extraordinary power of hope, perseverance, and community. Now it's our turn to show him that he and his family will not face this next chapter alone.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your kindness, generosity, and continued support.
Cancer Canknot. Together we stand with Eric, Anna, Bryce and Erica!
To learn more about Eric and Anna's incredible mission, visit www.cancercanknot.org.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-support-erics-next-journey
