My name is Malik Merchant and I am 53 years old. I have been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer (Rectal Cancer) that has spread and I am in recurrence. I am being treated at the MD Anderson Hospital in Houston, TX. Currently (as of 2024), I am divorced.

In 2024, after my last surgery, I was laid off as my employer found out about my health. Since then, I have been out of a job and in a significant financial crisis.

August 2023, I was first diagnosed with cancer. Started my first Chemotherapy beginning September 2023, and Radiation in February and March of 2024. Had a major surgery in July and September of 2024. January of 2025, I had a recurrence of cancer.

My mom has diabetes and cannot walk. My dad can barely see and is also unable to hear. They both live with me and I am supposed to support them.

I have taken loans, am behind on my mortgage payments, unable to pay my liabilities, healthcare bills are growing, and my commitment to payments to my ex-wife due to divorce is past due. My health bills are increasing and I cannot pay with all the other liabilities.

Currently, I am going through Chemotherapy for my cancer (stage 4) recurrence. This has put a lot of financial stress on my ability to function. They have a stoma bag for my bowel movements and this has changed my quality of life.