Help Derek Barrett Through Life-Saving Brain Surgery

Hi, my name is Monique Barrett Guzzi, and I’m reaching out on behalf of my younger brother, Derek Barrett, a devoted husband to Samantha, a loving father to their one-year-old daughter Callie, and one of the strongest people I know.

For quite some time, Derek had been suffering from persistent headaches. What started as discomfort eventually led him to the ER, where a scan revealed something no one expected: a mass in his brain. After follow-up testing and consultations, Derek was diagnosed with a cavernous malformation on his brainstem — a very rare and life-threatening condition.

After opinions from several specialists, it became clear that Derek’s best option is brain surgery.

Derek's surgery is scheduled for early July 2025 at the Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, Arizona, under the care of Dr. Michael T. Lawton, one of the world’s leading neurosurgeons. The journey requires him to travel cross-country from Pennsylvania and take time away from work and his young family.

We’re raising $5,000 to help cover:

If you know Derek, you know how selfless and loyal he is: someone who would never ask for help himself. But right now, he needs all of us.

Whether it’s $10 or $100, your support will help ease the burden on Derek and his family during this incredibly difficult time. If you’re unable to give, please consider sharing this campaign, checking in on the family or helping in other ways — like dropping off a meal, sending encouragement or simply keeping them in your thoughts.

Thank you for your love, your generosity and for standing with us.

With love,

Monique & the Barrett family