Help Melody Ferris Heal from Glioblastoma (Brain Cancer)

We live in a time when it’s possible to connect with all of our friends via the internet and share the thrills and spills we experience in our daily lives. We also live in a time when it’s possible to go to the ER with symptoms of dizziness and three days later have a tumor the size of a baseball removed from the brain...and be discharged the next day.

This past December, my daughter, Melody, was diagnosed post-surgery with a grade 4 Glioblastoma, the most aggressive form of brain cancer. She began radiation and chemotherapy treatments in early January and is currently scheduled to continue for 6 months with the addition of an Optune device to slow down the progression of this ravenous disease.

She had already been out of work for some time with what the doctors thought was a terrible case of vertigo. Multiple attempts to get back to work floundered and her ability to be the loving person we all know her to be - the friend, mother, musician, partner, and active community member - was disappearing, being pushed aside by the tumor that was rapidly growing in her brain. When her ability to communicate and comprehend what was happening around her had begun coming undone, her partner, Sandino, rushed her to the ER. It was there that the doctors were able to push for emergency CT scans & MRIs. They were able to remove over 90% of the tumor in emergency surgery, and set in action a treatment plan.

Now, we are able to come together to help Melody push through this challenge, and heal the cancer which has afflicted her.

Thankfully, Melody has insurance which will pay for the majority of the surgery and treatment. However, it doesn't pay for the loss of salary, as she is not currently able to work. It doesn't pay for all the incidentals or co-pays, and it doesn't cover the cost of taking care of her four-year old daughter, Kayden, who needs a lot of attention and love.

As much as I wish I could step up and take care of the finances, I am personally coming back from near bankruptcy caused by the covid mess of the past few years. Yes, I will do what I can, but I know it will not be enough.

So I am asking you, my personal friends and Melody’s extended network of friends, acquaintances, and colleagues for help. We’ve all helped with and donated to countless fundraisers, and know that many people coming together for a specific cause can result in amazing outcomes. We don’t have a clear picture yet for what will be needed, but we do know it’s likely to be many tens of thousands - and that’s just to cover basic expenses. If you’re in a position to count blessings, please consider making a donation. Every donation counts. If you’re not able to donate, please share this fundraiser, and send your prayers and healing energy – that makes a difference, too.

Thank you for your generosity. We know that Melody is in good hands for her treatment. I see her now as healthy, recovered, and happily raising my sweet granddaughter, Kayden.

If you'd like to skip the GFM fees, you can also donate directly to Melody via:

Paypal: @MelodyFerris

Venmo: @MelodyJeune-Ferris

With Love & Gratitude,

Michael Suzerris (father)

Melody Ferris

Sandino Wahpepah (partner)

Elliana, Eli, Kela, & Kayden Wahpepah (kids)

Michelle Ferris (Melody's sister)

+ the family & friend network supporting Melody's healing