Support Darrell Walters’ fight against cancer

Hi, my name is Marie and I am setting up this GoFundMe for my friend and former teacher, Darrell Walters, who really needs our support right now.

Darrell has been recently diagnosed with cancer.

Many of you know Darrell as he served as the director of the Photography and Media Facilities at CalArts for more than a quarter of a century, and was Technical Faculty in the School of Art Program in Photography. He also taught "New Lab" to countless BFA 1 Photography Program students.

In August, Darrell contracted pneumonia, and after a PET and CT scan, a mass was found in his lungs. There have been many visits to his PCP, Pulmonologists, Surgeons, multiple Oncologists, and two biopsies, that all seemed to be inconclusive.

In early January, Darrell was once again admitted to the hospital with incapacitating back pain and the diagnosis became clearer. They found cancer in his liver.

The treatment plan, as of now, is radiation therapy. Darrell has an appointment on February 12, 2024 another PET and CT scan which will reveal more and I will update as we learn what's next.

Anyone who has the privilege of knowing Darrell, understands he is a gifted educator, mentor and an incredible friend who left behind an adoring community of students, friends and chosen family when he relocated to Galveston, Texas in 2021. As those who love him will attest, few people have his moral compass and ability to show up 110%.

Acts of service are his love language. He served as the Photography and Media facilitator for Community Art Partnership (CAP), and developed and created a Federal Work-study program. Darrell has also logged more than 1,750 volunteer hours with the Antelope Valley Indian State Historic Park Museum and facilitated community outreach programs across the Antelope Valley. Since 2022 Darrell has been volunteering at The Bryan Museum in Galveston, Texas.

The numerous medical complications and procedures he has recently endured have caused many financial hardships and taken a toll on his physical well-being.

Any financial help for his ongoing diagnosis and upcoming radiation treatment would be tremendously appreciated.

It’s now our turn to help a man who has always been there for us! The medical bills have been mounting and will continue to come in steadily. Darrell cannot work at this time and needs to focus on rest, healing, and being with his tightly knit family in Texas. Let's try and alleviate the financial stress that comes with this already difficult situation.

Endless gratitude for any help, big or small.