Former Charter School Teacher, Leading Comic Artist Facing Health Challenge

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support nationally recognized comic book artist, educator and Massachusetts resident Andy Fish as he undergoes treatment for two rare blood cancers.

The fundraiser, organized by Fish's cousin Gina Gabianelli, (shown above with Andy) comes as the father of three prepares for an allogenic stem-cell transplant at UMass after being diagnosed in June with B-cell lymphoma and myelofibrosis.

Fish is well known for his work with major publishers including Marvel Comics, Archie Comics, Dark Horse Comics and Warner Bros. Animation, often collaborating with his wife, artist Veronica Fish. Nearly two decades ago, he also taught at the Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School in Franklin in the early 2000s..

Beyond his professional career, Fish has inspired thousands of aspiring artists through classes at the Peabody Essex Museum, Worcester Art Museum, Massachusetts College of Art and Design, Emerson College and other institutions. He has also authored instructional art books and volunteered as a mentor and boxing coach with the Boys & Girls Club of America.

According to organizers, Fish is undergoing four months of outpatient chemotherapy before an expected two-month hospitalization this winter for a stem-cell transplant. The treatment and recovery will prevent him from working for an extended period.

"I have contributed to many GoFundMe fundraisers, but I'd never wanted to have one," Fish wrote on his website. "Things are getting tight, and I have a long road ahead."

Support has been swift. Within days, the campaign had raised more than $23,000 toward its $30,000 goal from nearly 150 donors, including fellow artists, former students, friends and members of the comic book community.