Help Jonathan's Mom Fight Stage IV Cancer

Help My Mom in Her Fight Against Stage IV Cancer

I’ve always believed that hard work, determination, and perseverance are the keys to success. I was raised that way by two of the most selfless people I’ve ever known—my parents. They never asked for help, no matter how hard life got. That’s just the way they lived: proud, independent, and always giving everything they had for others. It’s because of them I’ve gotten to where I am. I’ve carried that same mindset through every challenge in my life. But now, I’m facing a situation where being strong also means asking for help, and it’s one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do.

Our Story

Five months ago, my mom started having some stomach issues. At first, we thought it was a diet change or maybe a stomach bug. But the discomfort got worse, and eventually, doctors recommended a colonoscopy. Even then, there were no red flags, just a routine check-up. But what we thought would be a simple visit turned into a nightmare. The diagnosis: Stage IV rectal cancer. We were devastated, but we refused to give up. As a family, we rallied around her. She began chemotherapy right away, and after two treatments, her first scan showed a bit of progress. We were hopeful. She pushed through four more rounds of chemo, staying positive even while enduring brutal side effects. Right before Memorial Day, she had another scan. We were nervous, but optimistic. Then came more devastating news: the tumor had grown. Despite months of treatment, the cancer was progressing. To make things worse, she’s lost over 50 lbs, now weighing only 101 lbs. She’s been hospitalized due to malnutrition and dehydration. The doctors are now discussing risky surgical options, given how weak she has become and how aggressive the tumor is.

Why I’m Asking for Help

Through it all, my mom has never once asked for anything. Neither has my dad. They've given everything they had to our family, without ever expecting anything in return. But right now, the medical bills are stacking up. The hospital visits, treatments, tests, and constant in home care have created a financial strain that’s hard to describe. I’ve reached the point where I have to do something I never imagined: ask for help. I’m asking not just for my mom, but for the people who spent their lives helping everyone but themselves. Anything you can give, a donation, a share, a prayer, means more than words can express.

Thank You

To everyone who has supported us so far: thank you. If you know my mom, you know how strong she is. And if you don’t, just know that she is someone worth fighting for.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, for caring, and for giving in any way you can.

With gratitude,

Jonathan Pinto