Ocean City, N.J. - In a community known for coming together when one of its own needs support, hundreds of residents and local businesses are rallying behind a local family as a beloved Ocean City resident continues an eight year battle with cancer.


A GoFundMe organized by Donna Ryan was created to support Joy, a local mother, wife and friend whose fight against cancer has stretched across nearly a decade. According to the fundraiser, Joy has endured years of treatments, medical appointments, scans, setbacks and uncertainty while continuing to be a devoted presence for the people around her.


Now, her family and friends say the battle has entered an especially difficult chapter. The fundraiser states that Joy’s cancer has spread and that she is currently unable to work as she continues treatment. Along with the physical and emotional toll, the family is facing growing expenses.

This is where the Ocean City community has stepped in to help.

Since the fundraiser was launched, hundreds of people have contributed, shared Joy’s story and sent messages of support. The response has quickly grown beyond the GoFundMe itself, with local businesses now organizing their own fundraisers to send additional support to Joy and her family.

On Monday, September 21st, Bakeria 1010 will give away free pizza from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., with 100% of the proceeds raiser throughout the day going directly to Joy and her family.

Then, on Friday, October 2nd, Tee Time Golf will host a fundraiser of its own, offering $5 games throughout the entire day. One hundred percent of the proceeds will also go directly towards supporting Joy.

Those wishing to send support are encouraged to donate to the GoFundMe and attend the local business fundraisers over the next few weeks. After eight years of fighting, the community is making one thing unmistakable clear: Joy does not have to carry this fight alone.