We all remember that David Cheramie, former Director of CODOFIL, former CEO of Vermilionville, French activist, early pillar of French immersion, Louisiana poet laureate, and our dear friend, suffered a massive heart attack in December 2023, resulting in an anoxic brain injury. In the spring, surgeries and hospital/rehab bills have been covered in large part through your generosity.

Today, David has been home for a few months and is making daily progress. From being totally unresponsive and unaware of his surroundings, he now sits up on his own, reacts to outside stimuli, attempts to communicate verbally and physically, and doctors say that he is cognizant of what is going on. However, while insurance and Medicare pay for some of the expenses related to his ongoing rehab and daily care, David has been refused Medicaid, and monthly out-of-pocket expenses reach almost $6000.

So we come to you again for help. A one-year monthly pledge (or a one-time donation) will help us ensure that David receives the long-term care he needs to improve as doctors are optimistic he can.

The Fondation Louisiane has pledged matching funds for each $100 or more donation up to $5000. We are hoping that the Louisiana Consortium of Immersion Schools will do the same for each $20 or more up to $500. Please contact us if you want to establish similar matching funds donations.

Please share widely and let’s help our friend and his family. Also, if you live around Lafayette, please consider visiting him.