ATLANTA — An online fundraiser was set up for a pastry chef who lived in Atlanta and captured national attention as a top five finalist on HBO Max's 2023 Holiday Baking Championship. After a life-threatening emergency earlier this year, he is now facing major health issues and financial trouble.
In March 2024, Executive Pastry Chef Sharrod Mangum experienced a life-threatening seizure where loved ones said his heart stopped beating twice, leading to a medically induced coma that lasted almost three weeks. During this time, he faced severe infections, kidney failure, and traumatic brain injury, fighting against all odds to survive. His recovery has been remarkable, but it has also been incredibly taxing.
"With the support of his father, Texas support system, and his siblings, Sharrod relocated to Texas and entered a new rehabilitation center," the online fundraiser said in part.
Despite his resilience and the support of his family, he is now facing significant obstacles, including disability and the inability to work. The ongoing challenges with his eyesight and the financial strain from mounting medical and living expenses have added to his burden.
His supporters have rallied to launch an online fundraiser to assist him during this critical time. This chef, who has delighted taste buds from Texas to Washington DC all the way to Atlanta and brought joy to many through his appearances on national television, now needs the community's help.
"Your love offering, no matter the size, will make a tremendous difference. It will help alleviate the financial strain on Sharrod and provide the stability needed to focus on what matters most- this second chance he's been BLESSED with," fundraiser organizers said in part. "Together, as a village, we can help Sharrod get back on his feet and, when the time is right, back to doing what he loves."
To contribute and support this extraordinary chef as he navigates his path to recovery, please visit the online fundraiser here.
