Kevin Saunders

By Zak Failla From Daily Voice

A beloved Maryland actor and filmmaker is facing the fight of his life after an unexpected leukemia diagnosis, rallying a wave of support from friends, colleagues, and fans across the country.

Kevin Saunders, a Montgomery County native and University of Maryland alum, has spent years lighting up screens and stages as a talented actor, director, and producer. 

But now, his biggest role yet is battling an aggressive form of leukemia—one that came out of nowhere after what was supposed to be a routine eye exam.

The actor took to a different camera this week to update well-wishers about his condition, which followed a near-fatal car crash and was discovered during what he described as a routine eye exam

"This is ... Not comfortable for me at all. For those of you who know me, I'm very private, and like going through my struggles on my own and like being the one to put a smile on other people's faces," Saunders said.

"Even though I might be going through something, I had to put a lot of pride aside during this time, and I'm so grateful to all of you." 

Kelley Hill

Saunders has been hospitalized since late February, undergoing intensive treatment in Atlanta, where his family has traveled to be by his side, according to organizers of a GoFundMe set up on his behalf to offset medical bills.

In less than 48 hours, more than $30,000 has been raised, rapidly approaching its stated $35,000 goal.

"If you know Kevin, you know he is a storyteller, a visionary, and a light in every room," Kelly Hill wrote. "His passion for film, his creative spirit, and his ability to bring people together have touched so many lives. Now, it’s our turn to rally around him."

Saunders' diagnosis has stunned his community, but the outpouring of support has been overwhelming.

"Kevin is one of the loveliest humans you'll ever meet," one friend shared. "We became friends immediately when we met at the Atlanta Film Festival years ago. We never know what life holds for us, but we can support and love on one another in the meantime."

Even those who crossed paths with him briefly have been inspired to contribute.

"Kevin was our movie tour guide on a trip to Atlanta. He made our day memorable and full of laughter while sharing fun movie facts," one donor recalled. "His career has been taking off—we’ve cheered him on seeing him in commercials and even in a Marvel movie!"

One supporter from his UMD days was shocked to see his story in a local news roundup.

"I don’t know if you remember me, but we were in an acting class together in Fall 2014 at UMD," Jane Lyons-Raeder wrote. "It’s been so great to follow your career via social media ever since then. 

"I was surprised to see your face in (the) newsletter, then saddened to read the news about your diagnosis. You have a wonderful community around you to lean on. I hope your treatment goes as smoothly as possible."

Despite the aggressive nature of the disease, Saunders is remaining hopeful. A recent video update from his hospital bed assured supporters that he is staying strong and deeply moved by the outpouring of kindness.

"These trials and tribulations are all to make us better," Saunders preached. "I want to use this time to spread hope, spread love, spread inspiration of (God's) will and everyone else's will too.

"I know everything is going to be good and I'll be better for it and I don't want anyone fearing for me. I'm going to be OK." 

For those wanting to help, donations can be made here.

"Your energy and prayers are keeping him uplifted," Hill added. "Kevin has always been there for his friends, supporting our dreams and lifting us up. Now, we have a chance to give back."

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