Evan Siapno Against the Brutality of Cancer

In the final month of 2022, the Siapno family was hit with the tough news that our son Evan had been diagnosed with testicular cancer. We didn't waste any time and took immediate action, successfully removing the cancerous growth. Yet, after two months of healing and countless medical tests, our hearts sank with the realization that the cancer from Evan's initial tumor had spread into his body expanded to the size of a baseball within his abdomen.

From April 16th to the 27th, the family found themselves in a distressing cycle of emergency room visits. Each visit, a painful echo of the one before, finally revealed an aggressive stage 3 yolk sac tumor, which had been the source of Evan's agonizing pain. At the moment, Matt, the family's sole financial support, had to take numerous days off work. His absence from work, necessary to provide care for Evan and transport for his wife and daughter to the hospital, has placed significant strain on the family's finances.

The cancer, a relentless and aggressive soft tissue variant that originated in Evan's abdomen, has now progressed to stage 3. This fast-growing, menacing disease is proving to be a challenge for our experienced oncologist at CHOC Orange County. The path ahead is indeed steep and daunting. Our medical team is advocating for an intensive course of action, encompassing four to five rounds of Chemotherapy treatment for the next five months followed by a specialized surgery, a procedure that only a select few surgeons in the region are equipped to perform. Beyond surgery, it is anticipated that Evan will require additional treatments, potentially including continued chemotherapy or radiation, as we navigate this difficult journey towards healing and recovery.

Though the diagnosis is daunting, we are thankful for having a clearer picture now and are prepared to initiate the healing process. If you've known Evan , you're aware he's gearing up to fight this with everything he's got. We have finished his first round of Chemotherapy this week and he is extremely exhausted and has lost 6 lbs of weight and is frequently nauseous and has a weak appetite.

Anyone who has had the pleasure of meeting Evan would agree that he's an exceptional and vibrant young boy. His happiness and laughter is contagious, filling any room he enters with a burst of warmth and cheer. His favorite pastime is playing tag with his buddies at the park, and his outgoing nature never lets him shy away from making a new friend. He is an avid reader, loves to study math, chinese and build lego castles.

Evan's kindness and generosity extend beyond his years. He's always eager to assist his Mom and Dad with caring for his baby sister, Emma. His gentle and caring nature makes him the best big brother one could ask for. His infectious laughter and radiant smile bring a dose of joy and light into everyone's lives.

Despite being only four years old, Evan has a naturally loving heart. On days when you might be feeling a bit low, he'd intuitively sit by your side, casting you a concerned glance, and ask in his soft voice, "Are you okay?" And just when you need it the most, he'd wrap his small arms around you in a heartwarming hug.

Evan is not just our son; he's our little ray of sunshine, our source of endless joy, and the embodiment of innocent love. He's a reminder of the goodness in the world, and we are profoundly grateful for every moment we get to spend with him.

If you're reading this, and Evan's story has stirred something within your heart, or if you've ever been touched by the warmth and kindness of Matt or Annie’s friendship, please know that as his parents, our commitment to Evan remains steadfast and unwavering. We humbly ask if you could find it in your hearts to support him during this challenging period.We respectfully request that you hold him in your thoughts and prayers.

His spirit is lifted by every moment of joy he shares with those around him. If you are in a position to help financially, please know that no contribution is too small. Every bit of support will go towards helping Evan and our family navigate this daunting journey.

We've set our initial fundraising goal at $100K. This will go towards meeting the cost of medical expenses, meals, and other daily necessities. This will allow our brave Evan to focus solely on his fight for health and recovery and Matt and Annie to take time off of work to fully take care of Evan.

If you feel moved to share this link, we'd be profoundly grateful. We firmly believe in the power of community - it truly takes a village. We are unwavering in our resolve to call an army of love and support to help Evan in this battle.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Matt and Annie Siapno.