Beloved Kansas Teacher Faces Double Hardship: Cancer Treatment and Stolen Car

Bruce Bingham's car was stolen while he was undergoing radiation therapy in Kansas City, adding financial strain to his cancer battle.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Bruce Bingham, a beloved teacher and track coach from Hutchinson, Kansas, is facing a double hardship: battling cancer and the recent theft of his car while undergoing treatment in Kansas City. The incident, which occurred on February 8th, has sparked an outpouring of community support, but also raises questions about the vulnerability of patients during critical medical journeys.

Why it matters

This case highlights the additional challenges cancer patients can face, beyond just the medical treatment itself. The theft of Bingham's car has added significant financial strain, as he struggles to cover both medical expenses and the cost of alternative transportation to continue his vital radiation treatments. It also raises awareness about the potential targeting of cancer patients, who may be seen as vulnerable due to their demanding treatment schedules and emotional/physical state.

The details

Bingham was diagnosed with both prostate and an aggressive form of skin cancer, requiring major surgery and ongoing specialized radiation treatment in Kansas City – a three-hour drive from his home. The theft of his 2015 Infiniti QX60 has left him without adequate transportation to continue his vital treatments, as he does not have sufficient insurance coverage to replace the vehicle. A GoFundMe campaign has been organized to help alleviate these burdens.

  • On February 8th, Bingham's car was stolen while he was undergoing treatment in Kansas City.
  • Bingham has been receiving specialized radiation treatment in Kansas City since his cancer diagnosis.

The players

Bruce Bingham

A beloved teacher and track coach from Hutchinson, Kansas who is battling prostate and aggressive skin cancer.

Piper Schmidt

A student of Bingham's who described him as "really funny and extremely entertaining."

Kendra Nisly

A fellow teacher of Bingham's who said "He's just a wonderful person and then for him to be going through these struggles is really hard to spot."

Teesa Sneddeker

The organizer of the GoFundMe campaign to support Bingham during his cancer treatment and car theft.

Kansas City Missouri Police Department

The law enforcement agency investigating the theft of Bingham's vehicle.

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What they’re saying

“He's really funny and extremely entertaining.”

— Piper Schmidt, Student (KWCH)

“He's just a wonderful person and then for him to be going through these struggles is really hard to spot.”

— Kendra Nisly, Fellow Teacher (KWCH)

“I just… I can't believe that, you understand, everybody would come together and rally like that because it's so awesome.”

— Bruce Bingham (GoFundMe)

What’s next

The Kansas City Missouri Police Department has confirmed they are investigating the theft of Bingham's vehicle. The case remains open, and the car is currently outstanding.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of community support networks for cancer patients, who often face significant financial and emotional burdens beyond just their medical treatment. Simple acts of kindness, such as offering rides or contributing to fundraising campaigns, can make a meaningful difference in a patient's quality of life during an incredibly challenging time.