Help the Cristales Family: Terminal Cancer & Paraplegia

My name is Judy, Mother of Brandie and Grandmother to the 4 Cristales kids. I’m reaching out to help my Son in law Julio and my daughter’s family through this most difficult time.

Their Story….

Julio began having side pain October 21, 2023. He was sent home from Emergency and Urgent Care 5 times in a month saying it was muscle pain. November 25 his whole world changed. He could no longer walk. Brandie rushed him into Emergency once again but this time he didn’t come out. Doctors determined he was now paralyzed and had stage 4 Renal Cell Carcinoma Cancer. What started in his kidney had now metastasized to his spine. This was devastating. Because he donated his kidney to his brother 18 years ago this made the diagnosis that much more complicated as he only has one kidney.

He spent 151 days away from his family. 3 months in RCH hospital and 2 months in GF Strong a spinal recovery program. There he learned how to adjust to his new life paralyzed and in a wheelchair.

Diagnosis

    ⁃    Stage 4 Renal Cell Carcinoma that has metastasized to the spine and hip.

    ⁃    T5 incomplete paralyzation from the waist down due to the Cancer.

Treatment

Julio had emergency spine surgery but the tumour is inoperable. He then had radiation and a kidney ablation. He is now at home and has started his second round of immunotherapy. Every day is a struggle. He is very tired and sore these days.

How you can help…

Julio no longer can work. This has been a hard adjustment to face emotionally but also financially. Brandie has gotten a second job to try to bring in more income to support their family of 6.

Donations received will help with financial stresses.

    ⁃    Bills & cost of living for a family of 6

    ⁃    Purchase of mobility equipment including a power lift, and other paralysis supports and supplies.

    ⁃    Integrated cancer treatment and supplements.

    ⁃    Family Memories, with the uncertainty of time they have together we would like to ensure they have the ability to make some memories that will last a lifetime.

Thank you for your support!

We appreciate everyone who has supported Julio and his family during this time. Every dollar counts and makes a difference. The family also has meal train set up if anyone wants to provide a meal.

Updates

Brandie created a website early in this journey to help provide updates as it was overwhelming to respond to all the messages. www.Cristales.ca

(July 2023 - One year ago, before their world changed forever.)