Rondell Sheridan GoFundMe surpasses target of $35K as fans rally around That’s So Raven star amid pancreatitis diagnosis

Stand-up comedian and actor Rondell Sheridan's GoFundMe page has raised around $50,000 as fans mobilized in the wake of his medical troubles. Sheridan was recently diagnosed with pancreatitis, a condition that has left him unable to work. For the past month, Sheridan has mostly remained hospitalized.

Sheridan's fans learned of the actor's unfortunate health diagnosis on May 5, when he shared a video from his hospital bed. It was palpable that the actor was in bodily discomfort while he briefly described his medical condition and asked for financial help from fans and well-wishers. In the video, the 66-year-old actor said,

“Hey friends, it’s Rondell Sheridan here. On April the 10th, I was on the road and got sick. Went to the hospital and they thought it was gastric. I got home on the 12th and immediately went to the hospital at North Ridge and was told it’s pancreatitis, tons of tests. I was in the hospital for nine days. I got released and thought I was on the road to recovery but…my pancreas is inflamed and there’s not much you can do about it but just wait for the inflammation to go down.”

Continuing, Sheridan shared why he was setting up a GoFundMe page, and said,

“I didn’t realize that I was going to be, and will be, out of work for quite some time. I’m setting up this GoFundMe to help with some of my medical bills and just expenses. If you have anything that you could donate, I’d gladly appreciate it. Thank you so much.”

According to Sheridan's GoFundMe page, the expected recovery period will depend primarily on how long it takes for his pancreas to heal, which doctors cannot currently estimate specifically.

Since Sheridan is advised to rest, the actor cannot work now. Given that Sheridan's medical expenses are expected to be high, his friend Isabel Beyoso set up a GoFundMe campaign titled "Aid Rondell's Fight Against Severe Pancreatitis" on his behalf.

In an opportune turn of events, Sheridan's fans and well-wishers have responded generously to the plea. According to the GoFundMe website, the target of $35,000 has been surpassed. At the time of writing this article, 1200 donations have been received, and the total amount raised stands at $49,940.

Donor reactions on Rondell Sheridan's GoFundMe

Heartfelt messages began pouring in on Rondell Sheridan's GoFundMe page after the actor made his diagnosis public. Donors wrote messages of support and comfort for Sheridan.

A donor who contributed to Sheridan's medical care took to the GoFundMe comments section to share what Sheridan's performance in That's So Raven meant to them. The fan wrote,

“I grew up watching that’s so raven as a child and you are my favorite Disney dad I wanted to take a moment and let you know that you are in my thoughts as you navigate through your journey with pancreatitis. I can only imagine the challenges you are facing, but I want to remind you of your incredible strength and resilience.”

Further assuring Sheridan that despite difficult days, he should have faith in those around him to love him, the fan added,

“It's okay to have tough days, but remember that each day is a step towards recovery. I have no doubt that you will continue to overcome this.Please know that you are not alone. Lean on your friends, family, and healthcare team for support. They are there to help you through this, Take things one day at a time, and be kind to yourself. Celebrate the small victories and keep your eyes on the brighter days ahead. Your determination and positivity are truly inspiring. Wishing you strength, healing, and all the support you need during this time.”

Another fan expressed support for Sheridan and wished him a speedy recovery, writing,

“Oh my dear Rondell, this really sucks. Wishing you a painless recovery.”

The comments on Sheridan's GoFundMe and the fact that more than the target funds were raised within one day are a testament to how much the actor is cherished by his fans.

Rondell Sheridan's career explored amid the actor's medical issues

Rondell Sheridan began his career as a stand-up comedian in the early '80s. According to the Tahoe Daily Tribune, the comedian performed on popular evening talk shows like "Late Night with Conan O'Brien."

Apart from his interest in and knack for stand-up comedy, Sheridan also began dabbling in acting. According to his biography on the All-American Speakers' website, his penchant for acting prompted him to audition for Circle in the Square Theatre School, an esteemed New York acting institution.

As per his biography, Sheridan developed his skills in theatre repertory work and character building during this period, a talent that would be useful as he created and performed his comedy sketches.

The Tahoe Daily Tribune mentions that the genre of storytelling, stand-up comedy, served as one of Sheridan's inspirations, used extensively by comedians like Richard Pryor, George Carlin, and Bill Cosby, who influenced young Sheridan.

According to his LinkedIn, Rondell Sheridan performed as a stand-up comedian at the Royal Caribbean cruise line from 1996 onwards and appeared in several television shows throughout the 1990s.

His breakthrough role came with the Disney show, That's So Raven. In the show, Sheridan played the father of the protagonist, played by Raven-Symoné. The show, which ran from 2003 to 2007, made Sheridan a popular name across American households and beyond. Sheridan went on to reprise the same role in "Cory in the House," a spin-off of "That's So Raven." Sheridan's last acting credit was as Victor Baxter in Raven's Home.

As per Celebrity Net Worth, Sheridan has a combined net worth of $500,000.