In October, our family was shaken when our cousin Vanessa was diagnosed with Stage IIIB colon cancer and sent into emergency surgery to remove the tumor just days later. What began as sudden abdominal pain quickly became a life-altering diagnosis.

November was spent recovering from surgery, and in December she begins six months of adjuvant chemotherapy ☢️ to make sure any microscopic cancer cells that might still be lingering are gone for good.

Vanessa’s care team is optimistic that with chemo, this can be curative. And that’s the hope we’re holding on to.

Vanessa is self-employed and is currently ineligible for elective disability insurance. She is taking unpaid leave during treatment to prioritize her health and recovery.

What matters most to Vanessa right now is protecting a sense of normalcy for her boys: keeping their days grounded in familiar routines, school, shared meals, and moments of joy, even while she undergoes chemo.

We set a goal of $20,000, based thoughtfully on the real costs of treatment, time away from work, and caring for the boys during the long stretch of months ahead. These funds will help cover medical and everyday living expenses, allowing Vanessa to focus on healing and being present with her family.

Thank you for standing with Vanessa and our family during this chapter. Every donation, share, and message of support truly makes a difference.

As our manang Vanessa says:

F*ck cancer.

And get your damn colonoscopy!

With gratitude,

The Panelo Family


One Nation, Under Panelo