Hi, my name is Mary Ann Ramirez and I'm starting a fundraiser for my nephew, Albert John Banda, Jr. and his family. On July 2, 2021, Albert (age 37) was diagnosed with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer. This was a huge surprise for Albert, his family and friends. He has four beautiful children, ages 13, 11, 10 and 2. He also has the most devoted woman, Lillie, who has been by his side since day one and is currently working part time at a nearby hospital while in the process of completing her nursing degree. What an unexpected blessing it has been for Lillie to have medical insight to help guide Albert in his treatment decisions. She is also an extraordinary mother!!

 

Since starting his cancer journey, Albert began treatment under MD Anderson and Texas Oncology. Treatments include two types of chemotherapy every other week lasting a total of 36 hours per session. Additional surgeries and treatments may be necessary after completing 12 rounds of chemotherapy. Since beginning treatment, the majority of Albert's time has been focused on healing by making multiple life style changes. Unfortunately, Albert has been forced to take a break from his job and is no longer working.

 

Albert has an amazing support system around him including his immediate and extended family and many friends. It has always been important to provide updates to all those who love and care for Albert. As a result, a FaceBook Page was created to provide regular updates about the stages of his treatments, inspirational prayers, and fun trivia as a way to interact and provide smiles within our group. A couple of small fundraisers were also organized that included the sale of teeshirts and wrist bands.

 

Albert is an incredible person who works hard to provide for his family and continues to support his church community whenever he is able. He has always had a very strong work ethic and soliciting donations was not his first choice. Medical bills, living expenses, and numerous trips back and forth to MD Anderson in Houston has become a financial hardship. I humbly ask that you make a donation to help him get through this difficult time. Your donation, in any amount, will be greatly appreciated.

 

If you would like to follow Albert's progress, you can join his Facebook Page at Albert's CRC Journey.