Steve Vernon Fundraiser: Let's help him with medical bills!

“I don't know what 2025 will bring, but I consider myself fortunate to have been invited to attend.” 

-Steve Vernon 

Wilmington’s own theatre legend, Steve Vernon, has spent decades making our community brighter, funnier, and more connected. His infectious sense of humor, his wisdom, and his steadfast presence have touched the lives of countless people. To know Steve is to love him; to think of him is to smile, recalling a story, a laugh, or a great night shared. Whether it was a spontaneous late-night gathering at Lula’s, an unforgettable moment on Arbor Day, or an evening of theatre magic, Steve has a way of making every moment memorable. He’s the kind of person who leaves a mark on your heart, connecting you to the very essence of who he is — a gem of a human being. 

But for all the joy and laughter he’s given to others, now Steve is facing a personal battle that has brought many challenges to his door. Over the last few years, Steve has been dealing with a series of unexplained and relentless staph infections, the latest of which has resulted in an official diagnosis, Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) (a painful, long-term skin condition that causes skin abscesses and scarring on the skin), several weeks in the hospital, a wound vac, and on ongoing journey to recovery peppered with In Home Health Care Visits.  

Naturally, this major health event comes with a hefty price tag, between hospital bills, medical expenses, home visits, and the ongoing journey to recovery, the costs have quickly added up — and returning to work full-time is not on the immediate horizon. Steve needs our help now more than ever. 

For years, Steve has been the one to rally the community, organizing benefit events and lending a hand to those in need. Now it’s our turn to give back. Let’s show Steve the same love and support he’s shown to so many others. 

We’ve set a goal of $10,000 to help Steve cover his mounting medical bills, living expenses, and necessary care as he continues his recovery. Every contribution, big or small, will make a difference. 

This is our chance to help Steve, a true Wilmington treasure, get back on his feet and continue bringing joy, laughter, and love to the community that adores him. We know Steve would never ask for this kind of help, but he’s always been there for us — now, it’s time for us to be there for him. 

Please donate if you can, and share this campaign with others who know and love Steve. Your kindness will not only ease his burden but will remind him just how many lives he’s touched over the years. Forget six degrees of Kevin Bacon — in Wilmington, it’s all about Steve Vernon. (Go ahead, test it out; we bet you’ll find someone who knows him!)