Support Sought for Long-Time Drupal Contributor Mike Feranda After Surgical Complications

Mike recently underwent what was expected to be a routine surgical procedure. According to his family, severe complications followed, leaving him quadriplegic and with significant vocal cord damage. He spent 26 days in intensive care and is now receiving treatment at a spinal rehabilitation facility.

A fundraising campaign has been organised by his stepdaughter, Alyssa Palanca, on behalf of their family in Denton, Texas. The funds will be used to prepare their home for his return, including installing wheelchair ramps, widening doorways, and creating an accessible bathroom. Donations will also help cover medical equipment not funded by insurance and transportation required for ongoing treatment.

Mike’s contributions have had a tangible impact across the Drupal landscape. In addition to maintaining the agGrid module, he has long supported USWDS theming efforts. Data from Drupal.org indicate that more than 1,400 sites rely on the Base theme, reflecting the reach of the work he has helped sustain across public-sector and community projects.

The Drupal project has long been sustained not only by code contributions but also by the relationships and goodwill that bind its contributors together. Moments like this remind the community that behind every module and theme are individuals whose lives extend far beyond the repository.

Community members in a position to help are encouraged to contribute, share the fundraiser with their networks, or offer messages of support. Even small gestures can help ease the burden of a long and demanding recovery.

As of 14 February, the campaign had raised more than $15,000 toward its $50,000 goal. The family has shared that essential medical equipment is expected to arrive soon and that construction of a wheelchair ramp at their home is scheduled. Further details and donation information are available on the GoFundMe page.