North Shore Rallies Behind Peabody Teacher's Cancer Battle

PEABODY, MA — Friends of Peabody's Chris Sakelakos are rallying behind the Lynnfield teacher and PVMHS alum's cancer battle with a GoFundMe page that has raised more than $70,000 from more than 500 donors in the days following its launch.

According to the page, in May 2024, Sakelakos was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Since then, he has bravely endured numerous surgeries and ongoing treatments in his fight for recovery.

"As a devoted husband and father of two young daughters, Chris's strength and resilience is an inspiration to all who know him," the page said.

Organizers said that every contribution will directly help with expenses related to his medical treatment and the care his family needs during this challenging time.

"He and his family are genuinely amazing people," family friend Anthony Gallo told Patch. "His battle is extensive and every bit and avenue for awareness helps.

"Chris, who is in chemo today, and his family are overwhelmed and moved by the support thus far on this fundraising campaign," Gallo added on Wednesday.

The page was launched with a goal of raising $10,000 and had bested that seven times over as of Wednesday night.

"I'm home and feel pretty good all things considered," Sakelakos said in a message posted to the GoFundMe page on Wednesday. "I have tumors in my leg and lungs and have been doing chemo for a while. I’m working with the best doctors around to find the best treatment possible to fight against this awful disease. I'm working on my leg rehab to be able to enjoy the spring and summer with (my wife) Christina and the girls.

"There just aren’t enough words to express how appreciative we are of everyone's kindness and generosity. We definitely feel the love."

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. X/Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)