Dear family, friends, artists and kind souls,

Our wonderful friend Catalina needs our help. I was one of Catalina's teachers at Montserrat College of Art, and I am working together with other friends and loved ones to gather funds to support her while she is being treated for Stage 3 ‘triple-negative' breast cancer, an aggressive form of cancer. At 42, and just 15 months into motherhood, this diagnosis has arrived at a time that should have been filled with new beginnings: watching her beautiful daughter Violeta grow, building a home with her loving partner William, and settling into the stable life they have worked so hard to create. Instead, their young family has had to uproot quickly from Mexico, leaving behind their home, their work, and their community, so Catalina can begin urgent treatment in her native country of Spain.

This transition has happened very quickly and the family needs support as they secure housing, begin treatment, and rebuild their daily life around Catalina’s care. While Catalina qualifies for medical coverage as a citizen of Spain, William (who is not a Spanish citizen) has limited work opportunities after leaving their life in Mexico. Our $30k goal is intended to contribute towards approximately one year of essential expenses, including rent, food, transportation to appointments, childcare, medical-adjacent costs, and the basic needs of keeping a young family stable while Catalina is in treatment and focusing on healing. As of now, Catalina is expected to go through 6 months of chemotherapy at the minimum, followed by surgery, radiotherapy and immunological treatments. Any donation will help so they can focus on fighting and recovering from this disease.

Catalina is a kind person who notices others, who brings care into the room, and who finds humor and beauty even in ordinary moments. As an artist, Catalina’s work reflects the same qualities she carries in her life: empathy, intelligence, tenderness, and a deep interest in what it means to be human. She loves life, loves to laugh, and has a way of making people feel both welcomed and understood. But above all Catalina is a mother, a partner, a daughter, a sister, and a friend. She is a deeply loved person whose presence means so much to so many. If you can help this wonderful family, please donate. Any amount will help them, however small. If you are not able to contribute financially please send your kind wishes or share this post with your family and friends. Let’s spread the love! Your generosity and kindness are greatly appreciated.

With our deepest gratitude,

Judy, Kathy, Christopher and Amber

For more about Catalina and her work: https://www.catalinaviejo.com/