My name is Curtis. I’m 69 years old, and I live in Memphis, Tennessee.

UPDATE (March 2026):

My condition has become more serious. I am now living with bilateral nephrostomy tubes, meaning both of my kidneys drain through tubes in my back into external bags. I’m currently undergoing aggressive cancer treatment, and surgery is likely the next major step. I’ve updated my story below to reflect what I’m facing right now.

I never thought I’d be writing something like this, but life has a way of changing everything overnight.

I’ve been diagnosed with muscle-invasive bladder cancer, and right now I’m in the middle of a fight that’s taken over every part of my life.

To keep my kidneys working, I’m living with bilateral nephrostomy tubes—that means both of my kidneys are draining through tubes in my back into external bags. It’s not comfortable. It’s not easy. But it’s keeping me alive while I go through treatment.

I’m currently undergoing cancer treatment (Padcev + Keytruda), and we’re waiting to see how my body responds. The hope is that the treatment will shrink the tumor enough to restore normal function—or possibly lead to the next step, which could be major surgery.

What I’m Going Through

Every day right now is a mix of:

Managing pain and fatigue

Preventing infections

Doctor visits, scans, and procedures

Trying to stay mentally strong

And through all of this, the financial pressure doesn’t stop.

Why I Need Help

Because of my condition, I’m limited in what I can do day-to-day. Medical needs, transportation, supplies, and basic living expenses are adding up quickly.

This isn’t just about treatment—it’s about:

Staying stable while I fight this

Keeping a roof over my head

Being able to focus on healing instead of survival

Funds from this GoFundMe will go toward:

My upcoming surgery and related medical expenses

Transportation to treatments and appointments

Medical supplies and daily care needs

Basic living expenses while I’m unable to work normally

How You Can Help

If you’re able to donate, I am truly grateful.

If you can’t, sharing this means just as much.

Every dollar helps take a little pressure off so I can focus on what matters most right now—beating this and getting my life back.

A Personal Note

I’m still here. I’m still fighting. And I’m not giving up.

This is one of the hardest things I’ve ever faced—but I believe there’s still a way forward.

Thank you for standing with me.

— Curtis

Cash App: $curtcurtis901