Overcoming Cancer: Webster Football Coach Embodies His Own Advice on the Field
Coach Scott Deuschle: A Fight Against Cancer and a Victory for Community
Scott Deuschle, a high school football coach in the Webster school district for 27 years, has been battling head-and-neck cancer since last year. Despite the challenges, he continues to coach at Webster Thomas High School with an unwavering spirit.
Last year's similar event raised over $1,100 for Wilmot Cancer Institute, a testament to the support Deuschle has received from former players, parents, and community members. This year, on September 22, a fundraiser is being held at the game between Thomas and Webster Schroeder High Schools to benefit the Wilmot Cancer Institute.
Deuschle underwent complex surgery in 2022 and received daily radiation treatment for seven weeks, as well as chemotherapy. Remarkably, he refused a feeding tube and managed to consume nutrients despite his sickness, with his wife, Debbie, preparing various pureed concoctions for him. As a result, he lost more than 40 pounds.
Throughout his illness, Deuschle has reconnected with old friends and witnessed the birth of his first grandchild. He reflects on the impact he's had on others and is taking time to appreciate the small things in life.
Deuschle praises his care team at Wilmot Cancer Institute, including Megan Baumgart, M.D., Joel Fontanarosa, M.D., Ph.D., Michael Cummings, M.D., Allison Gunderson, PA-C, and various nurses and staff. He also acknowledges the emotional support he received from Luis Ruffolo, M.D., a surgical resident at the University of Rochester Medical Center and former Webster Thomas football team captain.
Despite the hardships, Deuschle says he was in "survival mode" during his illness. Now, he is enjoying life more than ever with close monitoring by his oncologist, Megan Baumgart, M.D. The fundraiser is being organized by Deuschle, the Webster Thomas Booster Club, Schroeder coach Mike Stumpf and his staff, and the Schroeder Booster Club.
Deuschle has been coaching at Webster Thomas High School since 2001, making a significant impact on the lives of countless students. His resilience and determination serve as an inspiration to all.
- Scott Deuschle, despite his medical-conditions related to head and neck cancer, maintains an unyielding spirit and continues to coach American football at Webster Thomas High School.
- Last year, a fundraiser organized by the community raised over $1,100 for the Wilmot Cancer Institute, illustrating the support Deuschle received during his health-and-wellness struggle.
- In 2022, Deuschle underwent complex surgery, received seven weeks of daily radiation treatment, and chemotherapy, but remarkably refused a feeding tube and managed his nutritional needs.
- Deuschle's journey with cancer allowed him to reconnect with old friends, witness the birth of his grandchild, and reflect on the impact he has had on others, inspiring him to appreciate the small things in life.
