After years of surviving cancer and creating joy through our podcasts, I’m now battling a retinal detachment while my husband Marc faces heart trouble. We’re fighting to heal, and we need your help to keep going.
Many of you have noticed we’ve been missing in action: fewer podcasts, fewer photos, fewer laughs. The truth is, we’ve been struggling.
Earlier this year, I faced one of my worst fears: a retinal detachment in my left eye. I’ve already undergone seven laser procedures to save my vision. For someone with a rare genetic condition that leaves me with little melanin in my skin and eyes, this is terrifying. My father and grandfather both went blind because of this.
Meanwhile, my husband Marc has been battling atrial fibrillation, a heart rhythm disorder that landed him in the hospital multiple times and required his heart to be shocked back into rhythm.
Watching his EKG jump and falter was one of the most frightening moments of my life.
The world stood still as I watched the irregular waves at the hospital of his heart pulsing on the screen. Marc’s heart had to be shocked to reset, to prevent a stroke or heart attack.
We’ve had to lay low. No bodybuilding, no cardio, no long hours editing podcasts. Thankfully the worst is over and now I see the light at the end of the tunnel.
For me, even lifting or straining can risk further eye damage. I’ve had to relearn how to cook, read, and move around safely. I sleep sitting upright so the gas bubble in my eye can keep the retina attached. No sex, no gym, no fun! It’s been humbling.
And yet, I’m grateful. The procedures have given me hope of keeping my sight, and Marc’s heart is stabilizing. We’re slowly finding our way back to podcasting, borrowing a friend’s computer while ours sputters out its last breath.
But even with insurance, the medical costs are overwhelmin: over $5,500 and growing. Your support will help cover:
- Retinal surgery and follow-up procedures.
- Hospital stays and cardiac monitoring for Marc.
- Replacement of our dying computer, so we can continue producing our show and staying connected with our community.
We’ve always tried to bring laughter, stories, and connection to the world through Feast of Fun. Now, we’re asking for your help.
This isn’t the end, it’s a new beginning. I’m not about to be cleared to train again, and I’ll return to bodybuilding and creating new episodes. Until then, we’re focusing on healing, one day at a time.
Your donation, no matter how small, will help us recover, keep creating, and stay afloat through this challenging chapter.
Thank you for your generosity, kindness, and belief in us.
With love and gratitude,
Fausto Fernós & Marc Felion