Community offers signs of hope for neighbor with cancer


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TOOELE — The devastating diagnosis of stage 4 bladder cancer flipped Greg Harvey’s world upside down.

“When I first found out it was pretty dramatic. We didn't know how to take it,” Harvey said.

The 40-year-old father of four was diagnosed Jan. 27 and is now undergoing his fourth round of chemotherapy.

It was the Harveys' next-door neighbor who first decided to make his dark days a little brighter. Now the entire street near 600 West and 890 North is filled with messages of hope for Harvey.

“It started out as just simple signs in his yard made with marker and poster board,” Joanna Griffin said. “Each time he goes for a round of chemo we add more signs.”

Each time Harvey pulls out of his driveway and heads to the Huntsman Cancer Institute for his chemo treatments — three treatments every-other week — he notices those signs.

“It just lifts me up, gives me that support that I need to make it through that day,” Harvey said.

Former GOP vice presidential candidate Sara Palin poses with Greg Harvey's mother- and father-in-law to show support for Harvey's battle with cancer. (Photo: Harvey family)
Former GOP vice presidential candidate Sara Palin poses with Greg Harvey's mother- and father-in-law to show support for Harvey's battle with cancer. (Photo: Harvey family)

Harvey’s wife, Jamie, has extended “Team Harvey” to Texas, where her parents live. They sent back meaningful gifts to their family.

“Sarah Palin autographed a book for me…Mike Huckabee was supportive, so it was really cool,” Harvey said.

Along with his political supporters, the community in his own neighborhood has shown much support for him during this trying time.

“What goes through my head when I see these signs is that I can make it through another day of chemo,” Harvey said.

After seeing “Team Harvey’s” outpouring of support, a stranger saw the story and organized a fundraiser for Harvey and another resident of Tooele who is also undergoing cancer treatments. The fundraiser will be Saturday, April 11, at The Bit and Spur, 240 W. 500 North, in Tooele.

Harvey’s neighbors have also set up a GoFundMe account* to help pay for his medical expenses.

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*KSL.com has not verified the accuracy of the information provided with respect to the account nor does KSL.com assure that the monies deposited will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit or donation you should consult your own advisors and otherwise proceed at your own risk.

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