Hi, my name is Marisa and I am doing this fundraiser for my nephew Justin, the only son of my brother Rainier.

In March 2023, Justin's life took an unexpected turn when he underwent an orchiectomy to remove one of his testicles due to cancer. It was a challenging journey, but he courageously faced it, hoping that the worst was behind him. Little did he know that the road ahead had more obstacles waiting for him.

Patients undergoing an orchiectomy for testicular cancer often experience a positive prognosis, with high survival rates, especially when the cancer is diagnosed and treated in its early stages, but in his case, the cancer had already metastasized to the stomach.

We learned this in August, when his blood test results, meticulously monitored as part of his cancer follow-up, raised concerns. An ultrasound was additionally conducted, revealing a mysterious mass and indicating its presence in the mesenteric, prompting further investigation.

In September, Justin underwent a second operation to address the mass. However, the situation took an unexpected turn when the surgeons discovered that the mass was in the retroperitoneal, tightly attached to a major artery. The complexity of the situation prevented the removal of the mass, and the medical team could only detach it from surrounding organs.

While recovering, the doctor explained the situation to his mom. As Justin came to, and asked his mom “How was it was it removed? “His mom, with much pain bravely had to tell him as straight as possible that no, it was still in his body. He didn’t know how to react then.

However, the biopsy offered a glimmer of relief, revealing that the mass was non-cancerous. Despite the non-cancerous diagnosis, Justin's battle is far from over. Additional blood tests as part of his post-procedure monitoring revealed the presence of cancer. The urologist recommended a CT scan-guided aspiration of the retroperitoneal cyst, a procedure that could provide crucial insights into the nature of the mass and guide further treatment.

In November, Justin and his family consulted with an interventional radiologist who suggested a biopsy of the aspirated material. However, due to financial constraints, this procedure remained pending. The uncertainty and the constant need for monitoring have added stress to Justin's journey. In his desire to get well, he went from one job interview to another to raise the funds for the procedure, however the unfolding of circumstances added to the anxiety, culminating in blood test results indicating an elevation in the presence of cancer cells.

As we approached December, Justin continued to face the aftermath of cancer treatment, with regular blood tests being a vital part of his ongoing care. Sadly, the tests did not clear him from cancer, showing high indicators.

Justin and his family now had to seek the expertise of an oncologist who, after careful consideration, recommended starting chemotherapy.

Never did we imagine that it would come to this, the chemotherapy sessions are now underway, with Justin currently in the hospital, enduring the first cycle of treatment. Three more cycles are scheduled in the coming weeks.

Justin is a resilient individual who has faced each challenge with strength and determination. However, the financial burden of medical procedures, tests, and ongoing treatments is overwhelming. We are reaching out to the community, friends, and well-wishers to support Justin in this unexpected and prolonged battle against a mysterious mass.

Your contribution will make a significant impact on Justin's journey to recovery. Let's come together to ease the financial strain on him and his family, allowing them to focus on what truly matters – Justin's health and well-being.

Thank you for being a part of Justin's support network. Your generosity and kindness are invaluable during this challenging time.