Two fundraising events are planned to support former Bobcat and Men’s Basketball assistant coach Donovan Gayle’s ongoing battle with acute myeloid leukemia.

The 32-year-old, Jamaican-born, Scarborough, Ontario native was first diagnosed after a visit to the hospital on June 9th, 2013 and has since finished two rounds of chemotherapy.

Although the costs of the medical care are covered by public healthcare, the required high-priced medications are out-of-pocket expenses that are not covered by Medicare.

The first fundraising event, “Doin’ It for Deebo”, will take place on Saturday, September 7th at The 40, with the doors opening at 9:00 pm. Tickets for the 18+ event can be purchased for $10.00 at the door, at the Trails West Inn, or the BU Healthy Living Centre. Valid government issued identification must be shown at the door.

The second fundraiser is to take place at Smitty’s Sportline Lounge in Brandon Shoppers Mall on Sunday, September 8th from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. A ticket to the benefit will include a beverage, chicken wings, and potatoes. There will also be a rainbow auction and a 50/50 draw. Tickets can be purchased for $20.00 at Smitty’s Sportsline Lounge, the BU Healthy Living Centre, or by calling Kathy at 204-721-0994.

All proceeds from the two events will go towards covering the costs Gayle has incurred while undergoing treatment, with an ultimate goal of raising $5,000.00 to cover treatment-related expenses.

For more information on the upcoming fundraisers, Gayle and his battle with leukemia, visit http://www.dimesfordeebo.com/.