My name is Heather Schmit, and I am reaching out with a heavy heart and desperate hope. My husband, John, has been diagnosed with advanced kidney cancer here in Ecuador. He is the love of my life, a devoted father, brother, and friend — and right now, he is fighting for his life.

The doctors say that treatment must begin immediately, but we are facing an impossible challenge: the hospital requires $42,000 upfront to start the life-saving therapy he needs. We simply do not have that kind of money.

John is too weak to fly back to the United States for care. His condition has worsened, and every day we wait, his chances decline. It’s devastating to see someone so kind, humble, and full of life now confined to a bed, fighting a battle that no one should face alone.

We’ve already sold what we can, and our family has come together to cover the basics — but we cannot come close to what’s required. That’s why I am here, asking for help. Every donation, no matter the size, will go directly toward his treatment, medications, and care so that he has a chance to survive this.

If you cannot give, please consider sharing this page with others. Your prayers, your words of encouragement, and your generosity mean more than you can imagine.

Every year at Christmas for 40 years, John has dressed up as Santa. Here in Ecuador, Santa is known as Papa Noel. He gives candy to the kids and small gifts to families in need. Now this Santa needs a Christmas miracle himself.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, for caring, and for giving us hope in the darkest moment of our lives.

With love and gratitude,

Heather Schmit