Rally for the Sarpa Family: Fighting Chris's Brain Tumor

Friends of the Sarpa Family,

We are reaching out with heavy hearts and a desire to support our dear friends and neighbors, the Sarpa family. In March, Chris, the beloved husband of Shannon and father to Sophia (12) and Nick (9), was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor called Glioblastoma, or GBM.

This aggressive tumor is the most common and deadliest type of malignant primary brain tumor in adults, and it has left the Sarpa family in a state of shock. Despite the overwhelming nature of this diagnosis, Chris has undergone brain surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and participated in a clinical trial at Duke. Chris is fighting this battle with everything he has, all while continuing to care for his family.

Recently, Chris and Shannon received more devastating news. Chris's latest MRI showed growth in his tumor. Also, a new lesion appeared on the other side of his brain. As a result, he can no longer participate in the clinical trial at Duke that had brought us all so much hope. He will now start chemotherapy again, and add a new drug called Avastin. We remain hopeful that Chris’s treatment will be successful and that he will have many more years to raise Sophia and Nick alongside Shannon.

So many friends and family members have asked what they can do to help, understanding this is all taking a toll on the family. Medical expenses, treatments, travel and lodging to meet with specialists, and the costs of everyday life with less income are piling up quickly. As they navigate this latest setback and create a new path forward, we want them to focus on each other, not financial worries. If you have anything extra to give this holiday season, please consider supporting the Sarpa family. Any contribution, big or small, will make a significant difference.

Please keep Chris, Shannon, Sophia, and Nick in your thoughts and prayers. Your love, support, and generosity mean the world to them as we rally behind Chris in this fight for his life. Together, we can help make this journey a little easier and provide the strength they need to face the challenges ahead.

Thank you for your kindness and support.

With love,

Friends of the Sarpas