Local & Community

Community Rallies Around Della Lindley Teacher Battling Brain Cancer

A powerful wave of community support is lifting up Dana Zahler, a cherished educator at Della Lindley Elementary School in Thousand Palms who is courageously battling brain cancer.

Zahler, who was named Palm Springs Unified School District's Teacher of the Year in 2022, recently underwent brain surgery and is now continuing her treatment in San Francisco. Her diagnosis has inspired an outpouring of support from the community she has served so passionately.

More than $75,000 has been raised through a GoFundMe campaign, with donations continuing to come in from friends, family, fellow educators, students, and neighbors who have been touched by her dedication and kindness.

“Dana has given so much to her students and to our school,” said one colleague. “Now it’s our turn to give back to her.”

Dana has been a guiding light for countless students and families in the Coachella Valley, and the community is determined to stand by her throughout her treatment journey.

If you’d like to contribute or learn more, visit NBCPalmSprings.com and click on the Newsroom tab for details on how you can help.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.

By: NBC Palm Springs

April 11, 2025

Dana Zahler.Della Lindley ElementaryPSUSD Teacher of the Yearbrain cancerThousand Palms teacherGoFundMeCoachella Valley community supportcancer fundraiser
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Community Rallies Around Della Lindley Teacher Battling Brain Cancer