Dear Friends,

My dear friend Mia ( Maria) de los Santos needs our help. She has been battling ovarian cancer since 2016. Though she was in remission for some time, the cancer has returned. It has metastasized to her heart, and while doctors were able to operate and remove the mass, it has now spread to her lymph nodes. Mia is undergoing treatment and doing everything she can to care for herself, but the physical, emotional, and financial toll is overwhelming.

On top of fighting for her own life, Mia is also the sole caretaker of both her parents. Her mother, Linda, suffered a stroke a few years ago, leaving her in need of constant care. Her father has endured severe health complications, including heart problems, a stroke, a triple bypass, an abdominal aortic aneurysm, and now pneumonia. He is currently in a nursing home recovering but will be coming home soon, completely dependent on Mia’s care. Neither of her parents can manage on their own.

Mia is in the middle of her second round of chemotherapy, and with her father soon returning home, the burden on her shoulders is unimaginable. Family members have done what they can, but they all live far away. She is completely overwhelmed.

I have known Mia since grade school. We went to high school together, and during one of the hardest times of my life—when my parents were going through a terrible divorce—her family took me in. They gave me food, love, and a safe place where I never felt judged. Now, it’s my turn to be there for her.

Mia is the sole provider for her household, but with her health declining, she is unable to work. While she receives disability, it is nowhere near enough to cover the mounting expenses. She urgently needs funds for home health care for her parents, as well as help with household bills. My greatest hope is that we can come together and ease her burden so she can focus on healing and beating cancer once again.

Any amount you can give will make a difference. If you knew Mia growing up, or have had the privilege of calling her a friend, you know she is one of the kindest, funniest, and most hardworking people out there. Let’s show her the love and support she has always given to others.

Mia, I love you to the moon and back.