Medford, Oregon- For more than two decades, Réal and Cheri Brasseur have been familiar faces in Medford’s classrooms and churches, offering steadfast dedication and compassion to students and neighbors alike. Now, the community is coming together to support them as Réal fights for his life following a series of severe health complications.
Réal Brasseur, a longtime teacher at Abraham Lincoln Elementary School, was admitted to Providence Medford Medical Center on April 25 after experiencing weeks of unexplained fatigue. There, doctors confirmed he had suffered a heart attack that led to heart failure. Further tests revealed more alarming news: critically low platelet and red blood cell counts, raising fears of a rare and aggressive form of leukemia.
As his condition worsened, Réal was transferred on May 3 by Mercy Flights to Providence St. Vincent Medical Center in Portland, where he remains in critical condition. His wife, Cheri Brasseur—a fellow educator at Lone Pine Elementary School—has been by his side throughout the ordeal.
On Wednesday, the Brasseur family shared a somber update on Réal’s condition. Doctors have now confirmed through biopsy that he is battling an aggressive hybrid form of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) that has rapidly progressed into acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Complications continue to mount, with his body not responding significantly to current treatments.
Because of his weakened state, Réal does not qualify for traditional chemotherapy. However, he is eligible for a specialized, targeted chemo that attacks only the problematic cells. The family notes that this approach may be more manageable for him, but insurance approval for the medication—sourced out of state—can take 7 to 10 days.
In the meantime, Réal’s condition remains fragile. He is receiving ongoing blood transfusions in an effort to stabilize his system. His heart function continues to decline, which is now affecting other organs. His kidneys are operating at just 25% capacity, and liver enzymes have begun rising sharply. Doctors are considering placing him on a feeding tube or administering internal nutrition via IV to maintain his strength.
“His body is beginning to make a lot of micro clots that could be contributing to his kidney and liver’s decreased function,” the family wrote. “We are praying that it doesn’t create any complications for his brain or further complications for his heart.”
Despite the physical toll, the Brasseurs remain steadfast in their faith. “While being restless day and night and being tested through the fire so to speak, he is coming forth as gold and continues to find his rest in the Lord,” the family said.
Friends and supporters have launched a fundraising campaign through GiveSendGo to help ease the mounting financial burden. Medical costs, including emergency air transport and prolonged hospitalization, have placed significant stress on the couple.
Réal and Cheri have long been recognized not only for their contributions in the classroom but also for their involvement at Path Church in Central Point and their deep commitment to community service.
“Even in the midst of this incredibly hard season, Réal and Cheri remain rooted in their faith,” supporters wrote in the fundraiser description. “Their strength and hope are an inspiration to all who know them.”
Donations will go directly to the Brasseurs to cover medical bills, living expenses, and travel costs as they navigate the challenges ahead. Organizers emphasized that any amount—along with prayers and social media shares—will make a meaningful impact.
“We are all grateful for all of you and cannot thank you enough for supporting them so practically in this hard time,” the family added.
For more information or to donate, visit their GiveSendGo campaign online.
Medford Alert is not affiliated with or connected to any GoFundMe or GiveSendGo campaigns mentioned in our reports. Any links provided are for informational purposes only. We advise readers to verify the legitimacy of any fundraising efforts before contributing.
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