My name is Kristen Velyvis. Harvard classmate Sarah Kariko and I met at Weld Boathouse freshman year. I first got to know her husband, Dan, through visits he and Sarah made when driving to and from Wyoming, where they conducted field research on spiders, and since then, in Cambridge.

Dan was diagnosed with a Grade IV Glioblastoma nearly 28 years ago. He beat it then, but now he is facing a scary recurrence. He has floored us all with his strength and positivity. In December, Dan underwent brain surgery in Boston. Early this year he underwent 6 weeks of radiation and has received permission for compassionate use of an experimental medication he will have to take for the rest of his life. He is now struggling through 12 cycles of chemotherapy. He is so thankful for the amazing care he has access to; however, the costs can be astronomical – even with insurance.

Throughout his life, Dan has strived to serve others the best he can, including developing the software radiologists used to save his life when he was initially diagnosed. Dan has been slowly going back to work, but getting additional chemo makes that a huge challenge. Something that gives Dan sustenance is following the band Phish, which he has since the early 1990’s. In fact, a Phish song was played for him at every radiation treatment he had!

Dan and Sarah have used much of their long-term savings for Dan’s life-saving treatment and care. We are trying to raise funds to help cover health care and other expenses. We have set a goal of $100,000, which sadly is a common amount for people dealing with aggressive brain cancer. I hope our classmates, friends, fellow Harvard alums, and other Phish fans will help support Dan and Sarah in this time of great need.

Thank you so much!

Kristen