Help Edmund's Journey to Healing

My name is Jamila McKenzie, and I’m reaching out with love, hope, and a heartfelt request on behalf of my beloved father, Edmund “Bedie” McKenzie.

Known for his vibrant spirit, incredible musical talent, and unwavering devotion to his family, my father now needs the same love and support in return as he continues his battle with cancer.

About Edmund: A Life of Music, Family, and Hard Work

For over 30 years, my father worked tirelessly as a home remodeler and flooring specialist, installing carpet, vinyl, and tile throughout South Florida and Delaware. Though originally based in Miami, he moved our family to Delaware in 1994, continuing to provide for us while also pursuing his true passion—music.

As the lead singer of The Island Boys, my dad brought island rhythms and good vibes to venues like the Rusty Rudder in Dewey Beach, quickly becoming a cherished local entertainer. In 2009, he returned to Miami, and in 2013, fate introduced him to his life partner, Faith. Together, they built a strong and loving life in Decatur, Georgia.

A New Chapter: Compassionate Care in a Time of Need

My father's health has taken a serious turn. Diagnosed with both prostate cancer and multiple myeloma, he remains immunocompromised and far from remission. Last month, he was hospitalized with both influenza and pneumonia—illnesses that severely weakened his body and caused dramatic weight loss.

I recently received a difficult call from Faith, his life partner. Caring for my dad alone had become overwhelming, and I knew it was time for me to step in. It wasn’t a hard decision—it was a necessary one. I’ve agreed to become his full-time caregiver starting May 12th.

Over the years, my father has shown signs of cognitive decline, including memory loss. Combine that with a fiercely independent, hard-working spirit, and you have someone who often pushes his body beyond its limits. Tragically, his most recent MRI scan revealed a major rotator cuff injury caused by doing exactly that. Surgery is needed, but his body must first regain strength. He’s also been diagnosed with cataracts and will eventually need surgery to restore his vision.

He now requires 24-hour care and supervision.

To keep him safe and help him heal, I will stop working outside the home. While I’m actively searching for a remote healthcare job, it’s taking longer than expected. Meanwhile, his Social Security benefits simply aren’t enough to cover the care, medical supplies, and home assistance he needs to survive—let alone thrive.

How You Can Help

I love my father deeply, and I truly believe I can improve his quality of life. That’s why I’ve created this GoFundMe—to rally community support during this critical time.

Funds raised will go directly toward:

We’re not just asking for financial help—we’re asking for emotional support, too. Please help remind my father that his life, his music, and his love have mattered. Every note he sang, every home he helped build, every smile he inspired led to this moment.

Please consider donating, sharing this campaign, and helping us give this incredible man the care, dignity, and love he so deeply deserves.

From our hearts to yours—thank you.

—Jamila McKenzie