Update as of 4-10-2026
Pete did receive a trial in San Francisco at UCSF, unfortunately after 4 months of travel with bi weekly infusions it was unsuccessful. He then was able to stay home to receive a combination of 2 treatments, one of which is referred to as “The Whammy” for 4 rounds every 3 weeks. Last Friday April 3rd he had his follow up pet scan to see the results of the latest treatments. Unfortunately the treatments were yet again unsuccessful and his cancer has spread to many more locations throughout his body and there are a lot of new tumors. His doctor visit yesterday, April 9 gave a bleak outcome of him only having a few months left, at best. The Dr is referring him back to San Francisco for another trial, so they’re waiting on a phone call with more information with hopes they will have a new trial soon, but with that comes traveling again.
Up until 2 weeks ago Pete had still been going to work mostly every day working thru the pain and side effects of treatment. His resilience, positive outlook and will to live have kept him going day after day and always with a smile on his face. He is currently home with his family and resting as much as he can thru the pain of this melanoma beast.
He is no longer able to be at work full time at a job he has loved for almost 26 years at Southwest Airlines. In February he was the recipient of the Presidential Award, the highest award that can be earned. His wife will most likely soon be taking off to travel with (when they get the call) and care for him. The financial help of the go fund me has been a tremendous help with both Pete & Shannon having reduced work schedules due to the all travel and appointments. Unfortunately most of it has been used and they could use some help to get thru whatever the next few months look like.
Thank you for your support and kindness during this difficult time.
I, Shannon Sappenfield am Pete’s wife of 23 years. The funds will be used to pay bills, household costs and medical costs as we both have been working less due to his worsening condition. The funds are currently managed by both of us and in the future I will mange them as needed from our saving account.
Pete’s journey with melanoma has been a challenging one, but because of unwavering love from family and friends, it’s a story marked by resilience and determination.
Three years ago, he faced the difficult decision to have his big toe amputated as a first step in battling the disease. After completing treatment two years ago, Pete hoped for a return to normalcy. However, a routine scan just over a year ago revealed a concerning development in a lymph node, prompting surgery to remove it.
Despite these setbacks, Pete & his family remained hopeful. But unfortunately, another scan showed the melanoma had spread to a couple of lymph nodes. This news was devastating, but Pete’s spirit remained unbroken. He has now embarked on a new treatment plan, his cancer is in stage 3.
Pete’s story is one of courage and strength, but because his treatment may require him to travel to San Francisco, they’re currently awaiting a phone call to see if he will be accepted into a clinical trial, he and his family need support. The ongoing treatment and medical expenses are overwhelming. Pete, Shannon and their daughters are relying on the kindness of others to help them through this difficult time. They will be celebrating their 23rd anniversary August 31st.
Your donation can make a significant difference in Pete’s journey, providing him with the resources he needs to continue fighting this disease. Thank you for helping Pete and his family stay strong and hopeful!
Even if you can’t donate, the family appreciates prayers for Pete, as they fight this with hearts full of hope.