Young Father Fighting Cancer, Scammed by Used Car Dealer

A young family, already battling cancer and financial hardship for two years, now faces a new crisis — and needs our help.

Hi, my name is Carolena, and I’m raising funds for my daughter and son-in-law, who have been fighting an uphill battle for the past two years — both against leukemia and against the overwhelming financial and emotional strain that comes with serious illness.

After my son-in-law was diagnosed with AML (acute myeloid leukemia), he spent nearly two years in and out of Roswell Park, undergoing intensive treatment and a bone marrow transplant. During this time, their family struggled not only with the emotional toll of cancer but also the financial hardships that come with missed work, medical bills, and trying to keep life as stable as possible for their two young daughters, ages 4 and 1.

Finally, after years of treatment, they began rebuilding their lives — coaching little league, creating new memories as a family, and hoping for a fresh start.

But just four weeks ago, after purchasing what they hoped would be a reliable used vehicle, they were once again dealt a devastating blow.

They bought a 2012 Subaru Forester from Lemon Auto at 8137 Sheridan Dr in Williamsville. As an older car, they expected some repairs—and they made them without complaint. But within days, the vehicle catastrophically failed. Our mechanic diagnosed a blown head gasket and discovered the radiator had been filled with Silver Seal and water—a clear trick used to hide serious engine damage.

Despite attempts to reach the seller, they have been completely ignored.

And now, even more heartbreakingly, my son-in-law is back in treatment after experiencing sudden paralysis. Doctors have found leukemia cells in his spinal fluid, and he is once again fighting for his life.

Reliable transportation is no longer just a convenience—it is a necessity for ongoing treatments, hospital visits, and daily care for their young children.

We are asking for help to either repair or replace their vehicle, and to give this young family the stability they urgently need during this unimaginable time.

Every donation, share, and prayer means more than you can know.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support.

— Carolena Clark