Hi, my name is Ethan Santos-Cruz, and I’m raising funds to support my mom as she navigates cancer treatment and the financial stress that comes with it.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this and for being here.

Watching my mom go through this has been incredibly difficult. She has always been strong, independent, and resilient. Raising five children largely on her own and continuing to show up for everyone around her, no matter what she’s facing. That strength is what shaped me into the independent person I am today.

At the same time, I’m in a season of building my own life and supporting myself financially, which means I’m not in a position to fully support her in the way I wish I could. That’s been hard to sit with, especially as I see the stress this situation is placing on her and the uncertainty she’s carrying about what comes next.

This fundraiser is about easing that burden for her. Helping her feel supported, cared for, and less alone during a really overwhelming time. Any contribution, no matter the size, truly makes a difference and means more than I can put into words.

In her honor, I’ll also be hosting a dance class to help raise additional funds and offer something meaningful in return, as space to move, connect, and support a cause that’s close to my heart.

If you’re not able to donate, sharing this fundraiser still goes a long way. Even if you don’t know my mom personally, your support, whether through donating or sharing... means the world to me. And if cancer has touched your life or someone you love, please know how deeply grateful we are for your kindness and solidarity.

Thank you for supporting my mom, for supporting me, and for being part of this community of care.

Speaking Out on her Experience