My name is Mark Alvelo, and I am asking for help for my 81-year-old father, Robert Alvelo Rivera, in Guaynabo, Puerto Rico.

Just one month ago, my father was living independently in his apartment. He cooked for himself, took care of his daily needs, and lived with dignity and strength.

Everything changed after he suffered a fall and called an ambulance for help.

He remained in the emergency room for several days before being admitted. During that time, his condition worsened. Tests revealed severe anemia, and he required three blood transfusions. Because of his lack of mobility after the fall, he developed a painful ulcer on his back.

Since then, his health has declined rapidly.

He has lost 25 pounds.
He is extremely weak.
He can barely eat.
He now requires diapers, nutritional supplements like Ensure, and full-time assistance.

He was transferred to a rehabilitation center, but due to his fragile condition and limited responsiveness, we have been told he may be discharged soon. The building where he lives only allows independent elderly residents — no home care is permitted. He cannot return there.

We are a low-income family, and neither my father nor I can afford the upfront private-pay costs required to place him in a nursing home while we complete the Medicaid and Medicare approval process, which can take several months.

To secure placement, we must cover:

• $3,000 deposit
• Approximately 4 months of care while waiting for approval
• Medical supplies (diapers, nutritional supplements, wound care)
• Transportation and administrative expenses

We are trying to raise $21,000 to ensure my father receives the safe, dignified care he now desperately needs.

This has been devastating for our family. My father was independent and strong just weeks ago. Watching him decline so quickly has been heartbreaking.

I am doing everything I can as his son to fight for his well-being, but I cannot do this alone.

If you are able to donate, share, or pray for him, we would be deeply grateful.

Every contribution brings us closer to securing the care he deserves.

Thank you for helping my father live his remaining years with dignity.

— Mark Alvelo