Overcoming Cancer: Webster Football Coach Putting Words into Action
Scott Deuschle's Cancer Recovery: A Journey of Resilience and Community Support
Scott Deuschle, a high school football coach in the Webster school district for over two decades, has been making a remarkable recovery from head-and-neck cancer. His journey, marked by determination and the support of his community, serves as an inspiring testament to human spirit and resilience.
Deuschle, who has been coaching at Webster Thomas High School since 2001, found himself in "survival mode" during his treatment. However, he refused a feeding tube and managed to consume nutrients despite being very sick and having "fried" taste buds. His tenacity and willpower were evident throughout his battle.
Deuschle's care team included medical professionals from the Wilmot Cancer Institute, a renowned facility known for its comprehensive, patient-centered approach to cancer care. The team included surgeons Joel Fontanarosa, M.D., Ph.D., and Michael Cummings, M.D., physician assistant Allison Gunderson, PA-C, nurses and staff at Wilmot, and other specialists such as medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, nurses and nurse navigators, social workers and counselors, physical therapists, dietitians, and pharmacists.
In 2022, Deuschle underwent complex surgery, followed by seven weeks of radiation treatment and chemotherapy. Despite a rare September heat wave in Rochester, the football team he coaches continued to practice with intensity. Deuschle's spirit and dedication were not deterred, and he continued to coach, even when offered retirement.
Deuschle's recovery was also supported by the local community. The Webster Thomas Booster Club, Schroeder coach Mike Stumpf, and the Schroeder Booster Club organized a fundraiser to benefit the Wilmot Cancer Institute. Last year's similar event raised over $1,100 for the institute. This year, on September 22, Thomas plays Webster Schroeder High School, and the fundraiser will take place at the game.
Deuschle's recovery has been a time for reflection. He is taking time to enjoy the small things in life and is reflecting on the impact he's had. He has reconnected with old friends, seen his first grandchild, and received support from many former players, parents, and community members. Luis Ruffolo, M.D., a surgical resident at the University of Rochester Medical Center and former Webster Thomas football team captain, provided Deuschle with emotional support during his treatment.
Today, Deuschle has a clean bill of health and is being closely monitored by his oncologist, Megan Baumgart, M.D. He continues to coach football at Webster Thomas High School, a passion he considers to be what he enjoys in life. His story serves as a beacon of hope and resilience, inspiring everyone who hears it.
- Scott Deuschle's cancer recovery journey, rooted in resilience and community support, is a testament to human spirit and an inspiration for health-and-wellness enthusiasts everywhere.
- The medical-conditions specialist team responsible for Deuschle's cancer care consists of renowned professionals from fields like surgery, oncology, nursing, counseling, fitness-and-exercise, and sports medicine in European leagues such as the Premier League.
- Despite the challenges of cancer treatment and a rare September heat wave, Deuschle's undying spirit and dedication kept him coaching fitness-and-exercise and football, even through seven weeks of radiation treatment and chemotherapy.
- To show support for Deuschle's health-and-wellness journey, the local community organized a fundraiser benefiting the Wilmot Cancer Institute, with plans for a fall football game to raise additional funds in 2022.
