Cazembe’s Open-Heart Recovery Fund

Supporting Cazembe Jackson Through Open Heart Surgery & Recovery

What’s Happening

Hello family,

We are currently raising funds to support our dear friend, comrade, and beloved–Cazembe Jackson–who is preparing for open heart surgery that will take place on January 20, 2026.

Our beloved Cazembe was born with a hole in his heart and unknowingly moved through the majority of his life unaware of this hole. After a bout with pneumonia the hole was discovered and Cazembe has been navigating dealing with the discovery and understanding what is required for him to heal. In the spring of this year Cazembe was told that his heart condition had worsened and open heart surgery was the best course of action. In order to prepare for this procedure, it has already required an incredible amount of strength and courage from Cazembe and it will also require a long recovery period. For anyone in Cazembe’s orbit, you know that his heart and love is vast–he has held so many of us throughout the years and is a possibility model for what it means to embody deep integrity, service, and commitment to community. He is known as “Uncle Caz” to many of his kids in movement; and he is also a sibling, a mentor, a friend and family to many more.

We are calling on our collective power now to show up and give back to Cazembe during his time of need. This isn’t just about making it to surgery day, but also about the months and years of recovery thereafter. Let’s show up and do everything we can to provide some relief to our dear friend who is already navigating the world and capitalism in a Black trans body.

After the surgery, Cazembe will spend two weeks in the hospital. Following discharge, his doctors have said he will be unable to work for at least 8 weeks (2 months) while he heals.

This surgery is necessary, but the financial impact during recovery is significant. We’re sharing this fundraiser to help ease the stress of basic living and medical expenses over the course of 2-3 months so Cazmebe can focus fully on healing.

The Financial Need

While out of work, Cazembe will still be responsible for essential monthly expenses totaling approximately $3,500 per month, including:

Rent: $1,000

Medication & medical copays: $600–$800

Car payment: $500

Car insurance: $200

Cell phone: $260

Food & meals: $300

Storage: $200

These are baseline, unavoidable costs and do not include any unexpected medical expenses that may arise during recovery. We’d love to account for an additional $500-$1000 per month for emergency or unexpected expenses that may arise.

Fundraising Goals & What It Covers

Our goal is to raise $10,000 at minimum, with an ideal goal of $15,000 to provide flexibility if recovery takes longer than expected.

Here’s how that breaks down:

$10,000 → Covers approximately 2.5 months of essential bills

$15,000 → Covers approximately 3.5 months, offering a much-needed buffer during recovery

Any amount raised will go directly toward covering living expenses, medical costs, and basic needs while Cazembe is unable to work.

How You Can Help

Donate if you’re able — no amount is too small! If 500 people donated $10 today, we would reach ⅓ of our goal.

Share this fundraiser with your networks far and wide to help spread the word. Do you have a rich auntie or a funder who has felt Cazembe’s impact in the world? Go ahead and send this to them now ;)

Send love and encouragement — let’s remind Cazembe that he is not alone and we’re here to hold him. Send your love and prayers up to the guides to keep him protected throughout this time.

Even small contributions add up and make a real difference. If you can’t give financially right now, sharing this page is just as valuable.

With Gratitude

Thank you for taking the time to read, care, and support Cazembe during this vulnerable time. We are deeply grateful for every donation, share, and good energy you can send his way.

With appreciation,

Beloveds of Cazembe Jackson (Khalil Cole, Charlene Carruthers, Dara Cooper, Wazi Maret)