Hi friends, community, and loved ones,

We are raising funds to support Dr. Chelze Zamani, PsyD, LMFT, a deeply cherished healer, educator, and community leader, who was recently diagnosed with cancer, Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML).

Late last month, after flu-like symptoms that wouldn’t resolve, Chelze received a diagnosis that came completely out of left field. Since then, she has been hospitalized, undergone extensive testing—including multiple biopsies and PET scans—and begun chemotherapy and awaiting a stem cell transplant. AML is an aggressive form of leukemia, and Chelze will likely spend the next year in intensive treatment to halt its rapid progression and reclaim her health.

This life-altering diagnosis has required Chelze to pause nearly every part of her meaningful professional work to focus on healing.

Who Chelze Is

Dr. Chelze Zamani is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT), private practice owner, clinical supervisor, and adjunct professor specializing in complex trauma. Her work is grounded in care that integrates lived experience, ancestral wisdom, liberation, and trauma-informed practice.

Chelze works with individuals, families, couples, groups, caregivers, and adolescents who have experienced sexual trauma, developmental trauma, intergenerational wounds, and significant relational challenges. Her approach is culturally inclusive, intersectional, and decolonized—creating a space where people can show up fully as themselves and begin the work of healing.

She is also a passionate mentor to emerging therapists and has been actively providing community support to Afghan-mixed folks around the globe. Chelze’s commitment to anti-racism, LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and trauma competency has made her a trusted and beloved figure across professional and community spaces.

Chelze is not just part of our village—she is someone who has spent years holding others through their hardest moments.

Learn more about Dr. Chelze Zamani:

• Professional website: https://forevercaringmentalhealth.xyz/dr-chelze-zamani

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.chelzezamani/?hl=en

Why This Fundraiser Is Needed

Because of her diagnosis and treatment, Chelze has had to:

This sudden pause has resulted in a significant loss of income at the same time her expenses have increased.

Chelze is also navigating:

This fundraiser exists to ensure Chelze can focus on healing—without the added stress of covering basic necessities while she fights for her life.

Why We Set This Fundraising Goal

The fundraising goal reflects the real, practical costs of navigating a year of intensive cancer treatment as a self-employed clinician and educator.

Funds raised will help cover:

This goal is not about excess—it’s about creating stability so that Chelze can focus on recovery with dignity and peace of mind.

A Note From the Heart

Chelze has shared that this is a part of her story, not the end of it. Those who know her know her resilience, strength, and deep commitment to life and community. Still, even the strongest among us need support.

If you are able to donate, share, or send a message of love, thank you. If you’re unable to contribute financially, sharing this fundraiser and holding Chelze in your thoughts and prayers means the world.

Let’s help carry Chelze through this season—just as she has carried so many others.

With gratitude,

Soph

Friend and fundraiser organizer