Joaquin is my beloved nephew, and I am reaching out to support him during a very challenging time. He has always been passionate about basketball, dedicating much of his life to the sport. Unfortunately, after suffering a serious ankle injury, his journey has been anything but easy. He has already endured three surgeries on his left ankle, each one bringing hope for recovery, but the results have not been enough to get him back on the court or even to enjoy regular activities.
Now, Joaquin needs a fourth surgery, which will take place in Italy. This procedure is his best chance at a full recovery and a return to the life he loves. However, the cost of the surgery and travel is extremely high and far beyond what his family can manage on their own. We are doing everything we can, but we need help to make this possible for him.
Here is a message from Joaquin:
"Basketball has been at the center of my life for as long as I can remember. Growing up in a small city in Chile, I dreamed of playing college basketball in the United States, and through years of effort, I eventually reached three schools that were interested in my abilities, though I never got to play for them. I eventually enrolled at Bellevue College, but without playing, and now I help as the team manager. But repeated ankle injuries slowly took that dream away. After three surgeries, endless rehab, and every treatment I could possibly find, I’m still in pain and unable to play. My parents have already given everything they can to help me, and it’s been incredibly hard for all of us to reach a point where we simply can’t afford another attempt. There is still one real chance left. Dr. Sandro Giannini in Italy, the same surgeon who saved NBA player Carlos Delfino’s career, reviewed my case and offered a solution that could finally fix the problem: a biological graft with structural alignment. This journey has been incredibly difficult but I managed to be hopeful every time, now more than ever. The surgery and the stay over there is expected to cost more than we can manage, especially after everything my family has already paid. I’m saving as much as possible, but I know I can’t reach the full cost on my own. I’m asking for help because I don’t want to give up on something that has shaped my entire life. I came to the U.S. chasing a dream that once felt impossible, and even after all the setbacks, I still believe I can make it back. Any contribution, no matter how small, brings me closer to walking, training, and one day playing again without pain. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for being part of this hope with me."
I am asking for your support—if you are able to donate, please know that every contribution, no matter the size, will make a difference. Your kindness will help give Joaquin the opportunity to heal, regain his independence, and hopefully return to the basketball court. We are deeply grateful for any help you can provide.
Now, Joaquin needs a fourth surgery, which will take place in Italy. This procedure is his best chance at a full recovery and a return to the life he loves. However, the cost of the surgery and travel is extremely high and far beyond what his family can manage on their own. We are doing everything we can, but we need help to make this possible for him.
Here is a message from Joaquin:
"Basketball has been at the center of my life for as long as I can remember. Growing up in a small city in Chile, I dreamed of playing college basketball in the United States, and through years of effort, I eventually reached three schools that were interested in my abilities, though I never got to play for them. I eventually enrolled at Bellevue College, but without playing, and now I help as the team manager. But repeated ankle injuries slowly took that dream away. After three surgeries, endless rehab, and every treatment I could possibly find, I’m still in pain and unable to play. My parents have already given everything they can to help me, and it’s been incredibly hard for all of us to reach a point where we simply can’t afford another attempt. There is still one real chance left. Dr. Sandro Giannini in Italy, the same surgeon who saved NBA player Carlos Delfino’s career, reviewed my case and offered a solution that could finally fix the problem: a biological graft with structural alignment. This journey has been incredibly difficult but I managed to be hopeful every time, now more than ever. The surgery and the stay over there is expected to cost more than we can manage, especially after everything my family has already paid. I’m saving as much as possible, but I know I can’t reach the full cost on my own. I’m asking for help because I don’t want to give up on something that has shaped my entire life. I came to the U.S. chasing a dream that once felt impossible, and even after all the setbacks, I still believe I can make it back. Any contribution, no matter how small, brings me closer to walking, training, and one day playing again without pain. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for being part of this hope with me."
I am asking for your support—if you are able to donate, please know that every contribution, no matter the size, will make a difference. Your kindness will help give Joaquin the opportunity to heal, regain his independence, and hopefully return to the basketball court. We are deeply grateful for any help you can provide.