It wasn’t what they expected.

It is now three years since Manuel's diagnosis with brain cancer, and in the past year, things have progressed more quickly than anticipated. Last summer, the family received the news that they should make plans to return to the United States. Through God's provision, the necessary paperwork was received, and the family was able to move to the United States in November.

The several months since then have been filled with medical tests, a grade IV diagnosis, and aggressive medical treatment. Manuel is now a few months post-radiation; his hair is coming back, and his strength is increasing, but the long-term prognosis is still dire. Most patients like Manuel's survive 12-18 months from the point of a grade IV diagnosis, but we are hopeful for more.

Manuel began — and is continuing to receive — regular infusions, oral chemotherapy, and a fairly new FDA-approved medication that has proven helpful to many patients. The goal is to attack the tumors on three different levels. Thankfully, insurance covers much of these costs, but neither Manual nor Emily can work at this time due to the need for ongoing treatment and caring for their three young boys (7, 5, and 2), so help is still needed with ongoing medical and living expenses.

Given the current state of Manuel's health, the Nivias now feel they are in a place to move out of the home where they have been graciously hosted by family and establish a home of their own; a place where they can spend time as a family and prepare for Manuel's ongoing care. However, there are many challenges to finding an appropriate and affordable home.

We have decided to keep this GoFundMe opportunity open for those who wish to support the Nvias as they transition to the next step in this journey, find a home for their family, and cover medical and living expenses. Emily's mom, Sharon, will continue to manage GoFundMe donations to streamline the process for the family, sending funds directly to them and covering costs as requested.

We are so grateful for those who have already come alongside the Nivias with meals, childcare, and support for the various needs they face each day. The goal of the GoFundMe is to streamline the process for those who want to offer financial support.

Please join us as, together, we lighten the load for this sweet family.