Nancy Chapman
At just 20 years old, she was working two jobs, living independently with her brother, and spending her free time riding horses and helping at rodeos. But the symptoms quickly became dangerous—especially while handling animals and medical equipment as a veterinary technician in training.
After a series of medical appointments and an MRI, Cody and her family received devastating news: an inoperable brain stem tumor known as a Tectal Plate Glioma. Her doctor described the situation as “dangerous and urgent.” The slow-growing tumor is located on the brain stem, blocking the flow of spinal fluid and interfering with the body’s central nervous system. Because of its location, the tumor cannot be biopsied.
Her physicians hope that when Cody travels to Stanford University later this month, they may find another abnormal growth elsewhere in her body to biopsy, allowing them to determine whether to begin treatment with radiation or chemotherapy—and at what dosage.
As her mother Mandy put it, “this was a real gut punch.”
The diagnosis has created an enormous emotional and financial strain for Cody and her family. In response, the close-knit community she’s long been a part of has stepped in to help. With support from James Dexter of Fifty Horse Ranch and longtime family friend Kirk Ferris, a fundraiser is being organized to help with Cody’s medical and travel expenses. Monica Fairbanks has taken the lead in planning and logistics.
To those who know her, Cody is an amazing young lady—an inspiration. Her kindness, faith, and quiet determination have always been contagious.
She was raised on a ranch in Standish, California, where her family runs a horse rescue. In recent months, wildfires in the region have led them to take in everything from pigs and rabbits to goats, cows, and—of course—more horses. Growing up in that environment, Cody learned early on to help people and animals in need.
A dedicated rodeo athlete throughout high school and college, Cody specialized in barrel racing but describes herself as an all-around competitor. In June 2024, she rode with the Reno Rodeo Flag Team, calling it one of the best experiences since graduating from college.
Through her family’s friendship with the Dexter family, Cody met Kirk Ferris, who rides, trains, and shows cutting horses throughout Nevada and California. She often helps Kirk at shows, saddling and warming up horses before competition, and cooling them down afterward. “I’ve found another way to enjoy horses,” she said.
Working hard and having big goals has always been Cody’s way of life. She earned an associate degree in veterinary technology and a certification in cattle reproduction from the University of Nevada, Reno. She now puts those skills to use at the VCA Baring Boulevard Animal Hospital in Sparks. On her days off, she works at Big R, also in Sparks. She and her brother share an apartment and split expenses—life was unfolding as it should for two young adults just starting out.
Despite the challenges of her diagnosis, Cody continues to work when she can. Both of her employers have supported her need for time off. “On the good days, things are great, but on the bad days I can’t even get out of bed,” she said. One of the hardest parts, she added, has been learning how to talk about her illness—saying how she really feels out loud isn’t easy.
A benefit playday and fundraiser for Cody will be held at Fifty Horse Ranch, 13333 Carson Highway in Fallon, on Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025, beginning at 8 a.m. The event is free to attend; however, horse events require registration. Donations are welcomed to help with medical and travel costs as Cody continues her fight. #Cody Strong.
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