Kicking Jack Sass To The Curb

Hi! My name is Sharon Perry. I am a friend of Tamara, Chris, Matty & Kinsley Sherdahl. I met the Sherdahl's quite a few years ago through Coquitlam Little League when my husband was coaching our youngest daughters baseball team. One of the very first years Kendra played, Matty was on our team and many years since. Kendra and Matty became instant friends. Through CLL, our families became friends.

I am reaching out to you now because the Sherdahl's need our support. Matty ended up in Children's Hospital the week before school started with a brain tumour which Matty named Jack Sass. He has undergone two surgeries on the brain, one for taking the biopsies and another to relieve fluid build up. He has had CTs, MRIs, EEGs and more. Matty is still sleeping 5+ days later. And today, the words "BRAIN CANCER" (aka Germinoma) are all that ring through Tamara & Chris's ears. Two words no parents should ever hear.

What we know is that the cancer is thankfully treatable but it is a very long journey once Matty wakes up. (WAKE UP MATTY!!!) 4+ months of chemo, 2+ months of radiation and then an uphill climb for overall health and wellness for this 12 YO are in his very near future.

Both Tamara & Chris need to work and I'm sure I don't need to explain the cost of living in the lower mainland. Tamara recently started a new job. If she even qualifies for medical EI, it will not be enough to cover what she brings home for her family nor will it last the duration of these treatments.

Let me tell you what I know about this family. Tamara is always TEAM MOM because she is the bomb at organizing the team, whether it be for picture day or fundraising . If I remember correctly, CLL asks that each family sell 1 book each season. Not Tamara, she sells 20+ books every year. You want Tamara on your team because you WILL win the team pizza party at the end of the season. Chris is always helping get the field prepped before or after the game. Both Tamara & Chris are always helping with the coaches & kids with the drills, catching & throwing, score keeping...you name it, these parents are out every night helping. Tamara also organizes donations for TriCities moms in need. She is also the type of person that when you have cancer, like I recently did, she is the one who tracks down a box of freezies from the corner store late at night because you have a craving and makes them not close until she gets there for pickup. Matty is also the kindest big brother to Kinsley and friend to all he encounters. This whole family is nothing shy of amazing, kind-hearted beings.

I know I might be shooting for the sky with the fundraising goal but what I know about this family is that they believe in paying it forward. If they don't need it all, I KNOW they will donate what remains. If they use it all, I know once they are back on their feet, they will be pitching in again at everything they are involved in and supporting the community with their time and efforts every way they can.

Please help support the Sherdahl's through what no parent should ever have to go through. Every dollar helps and also your well wishes, prayers, thoughts and sharing this fundraiser too. Thank you for your generosity, love and support!

Sharon Perry