Main fundraiser photo

Cancer Relief Fund

Donation protected
In early 2021, life as we knew it changed forever. As COVID-19 swept across the world, we all learned to adapt to a new reality. Little did I know that my life was about to change in an even more profound way.

Early April, I woke up feeling incredibly sick. I had no idea what was happening, but I knew it was serious. After a battery of tests, the doctors diagnosed me with PSC, a rare condition affecting the bile duct and liver. But that was just the beginning of my journey.

Shortly after being discharged from the hospital, I received the devastating news that I had cancer in my outer bile duct. But even in the face of this terrifying news, I was determined to stay strong and fight with everything I had.

My battle was intense and grueling. I underwent numerous procedures, including the placement of multiple stents, each one failing and causing further complications. I lost so much weight that I barely recognized myself and didn’t know if I’d make it. But I refused to give up.

Finally, the doctors decided to perform one of the most complicated abdominal surgeries possible - a Whipple procedure. The surgery took nearly ten hours, and when it was over, the real battle began.

I had to fight to regain my strength and reintroduce food into my system. Every day was a challenge, but I refused to give up hope. I underwent CT scans and MRIs every three months, and for nine months, I was completely clear of cancer.

But the cancer returned, and I was faced with a difficult decision. Conventional chemotherapy was not an option for me, given my weakened immune system. After consulting with numerous doctors and specialists, I found a solution that worked for me - IPT, a form of chemotherapy that uses low doses of drugs to minimize side effects and allow the immune system to heal.

My fight continues, but I am determined to overcome this challenge. Unfortunately, the financial burden of my treatment has been overwhelming-- my insurance does not cover this treatment, and I am in need of support.

If you can donate, I would be forever grateful. If you cannot, I also accept hugs, good conversations, and positive text messages! Thank you for being a part of my journey.
Donate

Donations 

    Donate

    Organizer

    Marcelo Alvarez
    Organizer
    Los Angeles, CA

    Your easy, powerful, and trusted home for help

    • Easy

      Donate quickly and easily

    • Powerful

      Send help right to the people and causes you care about

    • Trusted

      Your donation is protected by the GoFundMe Giving Guarantee