If you have ever come across CJ, then you know what an awesome and courageous 13 year old boy he is. CJ is kind-hearted, goofy, fun, adventurous, and so loving. He loves being outdoors, especially going to the beach, riding his skateboard/bike, playing video games, and spending time with family and friends. He is very passionate about cars, like father, like son and one day wants to travel the world especially to Tokyo, Japan inspired by one of his favorite movie series, Fast & Furious.

On Tuesday, March 16, 2021, CJ was newly diagnosed with T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) and has started treatment and will undergo chemotherapy even after being discharged from the hospital for 3 years depending on his progress. Prior to admission, on March 12th, we noticed CJ’s enlarged lymph nodes and swollen tonsils. Although he was in no pain, had no fever or troubled breathing that evening, we were still concerned and called the hospital advice line for a second opinion before needing to take him into urgent care that following morning. We were advised to keep an eye on him and watch for any other concerning symptoms. His mother took him to Urgent Care on March 14th due to his throat being extremely swollen with white patches. CJ had bloodwork, cultures drawn, and got tested for strep and mono but all came back negative. He was sent home and was prescribed antibiotics to kill the bacteria and steroids to decrease inflammation. We continued to observe for any changes. On March 15th, CJ woke up doing his normal morning routine with no issues but in between classes, he mentioned he was feeling extremely tired. Later that evening, we celebrated Jason’s (dad) birthday and we were a bit concerned because he barely touched his dinner which is rare because he would never pass up his love for steak. He was still breathing heavily overnight due to his swollen tonsils. On Tuesday morning, March 16th, CJ complained of a stomach ache and we noticed a new visible bump on the side of his neck among the other symptoms. It was at that very moment Jason made the decision to take CJ to Sharp Memorial Hospital, where he was then immediately transferred and admitted to Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego. Our entire family is extremely heartbroken but CJ has been so strong and with no complaints during this whole process. We have so much faith that he will get through this very unfortunate, unimaginable time in his life and will come out of this as a much stronger young man. We love you bud!

Jason owns a small business and he doesn’t have the option of taking Paid Time Off (PTO) or Family Medical Leave (FMLA). It has definitely been challenging and difficult for him to take time off from work to be at the hospital with CJ 24/7 but he is definitely doing his best and has been there for CJ each and every day. Jason is also juggling his time to make sure that CJ’s 16 year old sister, Cymairah is doing well at home too. We are all taking it one day at a time.

Today, April 18, 2021 marks a little over a month being admitted to Rady Children’s Hospital Hematology/Oncology unit. Jason and I were very hesitant in sharing this very private family matter with everyone but this GoFundMe is for CJ and should medical bills/expenses grow, I hope this fund can help CJ and our family with that as well. ALL LEFTOVER PROCEEDS WILL BE DONATED TO ST. JUDE’S CANCER RESEARCH AND RADY CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL. Thank you everyone for your love and support, we truly appreciate it!