Today marks the birthday of twin brothers Will and Hank Deutschendorf, best known to Ghostbusters fans for sharing the role of Baby Oscar in 1989’s slime-soaked sequel, Ghostbusters II. While Hank tragically passed away in 2017, Will is honoring his memory this year with a heartfelt fundraiser supporting suicide prevention and grief support services.
Titled “Hope is Stronger Than Fear,” the campaign is aiming to raise $5,000 for Friends for Survival, a nonprofit dedicated to helping survivors of suicide loss. Just launching and with two weeks to go, the fundraiser has already surpassed $1,000.
“Vigo has returned,” Will wrote on Facebook. “This time, he’s not after me… he’s after my daughter, Hope.” Framing the campaign through the lens of the film’s narrative, he added, “To save her — and to save countless survivors of suicide loss — I’m partnering with Friends for Survival, a nonprofit that provides life-changing support to those left behind after a suicide.”
As a thank-you to donors, everyone who contributes will be entered to win a fan-made, limited-edition Ghostbusters II Vigo the Carpathian collectible statue, personally signed by Will.
The campaign is said to stand as a tribute to Hank and a call to action for mental health awareness. “This isn’t just about stopping Vigo,” Will added. “It’s about shining a light for those still fighting their way back from darkness — in Hank’s memory, and for everyone who still needs hope.”
To help Will reach his goal and support a worthy cause, donations can be made by visiting the official campaign page, available here.
