On Father’s Day, June 15th 2025, our world was forever changed when our beloved Kari Madsen Fellows - an incredible aunt, sister, friend, mother, and wife, was diagnosed with a terminal illness: Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease. This hereditary condition is a rare, degenerative, and fatal brain disorder.

Kari and Joe Fellows, have opened their hearts and home to numerous children with disabilities, adopting many along the way. Their unwavering commitment to serving others has made them a pillar of strength and compassion in the community. Kari has always been a patient, nurturing mother. She stood faithfully by her son’s side after his autism diagnosis and has lovingly cared for others with special needs throughout the years. Her kindness and service have touched many lives, she is more than a caregiver; she is a lifeline to those who depend on her love.

Now, the family is in need of both prayers and financial support. What was first believed to be a stroke in March quickly drained their savings. As they face this heartbreaking diagnosis, they are focusing their remaining time on creating lasting memories with Kari. We continue to hope and pray for a miracle.

The family has asked for all to join them in a special fast for Kari on Sunday, June 22nd 2025.

We have set up this Go Fund me account to help the family with medical and associated expenses. 100% of all donations received will go directly to the Fellows family.

Thank you for your love, prayers, and support during this incredibly difficult time.

Organized by Misti Isham on behalf of her dad - Byron Fellows (Joe's Brother).

UPDATE:

Kari has been released from the hospital and is on hospice. She is residing at her fathers house. If you would like to visit her, please reach out to her husband Joe.

Update: 6/21

Kari is no longer able to speak, her memory is fading, and she has lost the ability to walk. This has been an incredibly heartbreaking time for Joe and his family as they walk through the unknown, holding on to each moment with her.

The family is inviting all who feel moved to join them in a special fast beginning today and continuing into tomorrow, praying for comfort, strength, and, if it’s within God’s will, a miracle of healing.

Your love, prayers, and support have meant so much to them during this deeply painful time. If you would like to visit Kari, please reach out to her husband, Joe, to coordinate.

UPDATE 7/2/25: Kari’s oxygen levels have fallen below 90. The disease has severely affected her mind and body, taking away her ability to move, reason, solve problems. It has taken her eyesight and memory too. Her condition is rapidly declining. During this deeply difficult time, the family is incredibly grateful for the continued love and support. Please continue to donate, as this will continue to help the family with medical and necessities.

Words from Joe: Hold those you love and tell them everyday of your love for them. Squeeze them so they feel your love. You never know how fast life can change and take your most precious friends and love of your life. It’s difficult to speak the heartache and gut wrench I feel, but I witness that the calm and peace from God is real. Kari's faith is unshaken. I feel so fortunate to have her in my life. As well as my amazing children. Peace and comfort to you all. Jesus Is The Christ.

Update: July 4th, 2025

Kari peacefully passed away this morning. The family is deeply grateful for all the love and support they’ve received during this time.

Funeral arrangements are currently underway, and more details will be shared.

Update: Kari's funeral - Kearns Utah South Stake Center

Address: 5905 S 4000 W

Kearns, Utah

Time: 6pm-8pm

Time: 11am

(Viewing: 9:45-10:45am)