Aloha,

My name is Shawn Casco, and many of you may know my best friend, Manuel “Nino” Burruel. If you’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting him, you’ve felt the spark of his firecracker personality and free spirit. Within moments of being in his presence, Manuel makes you feel at ease—like you’ve known him for years. His charisma and confidence light up a room, commanding attention like a true star.

What many may not know is that Manuel has been fiercely independent for most of his life. He left his parents’ home at just 15 and began carving his own path through this unpredictable world. He never looked back.

Manuel spent much of his adult life in Las Vegas, where we met in our early 20s and quickly built a bond like no other. Over the years, we’ve shared countless highs and weathered some of life’s lowest lows together. Through it all, what has always stood out is his resilience. He’s a fighter—never backing down from a challenge, always pushing forward with grit and determination. Even when he needed help, his pride wouldn’t let him ask. He’s always taken the hard road, head-on, and emerged stronger.

Recently, Manuel returned to Arizona to be closer to family—a move I believe, whether he admits it or not, was deeply needed. He’s been receiving the kind of support that nourishes the soul: emotional, spiritual, and unconditional love. Yet, true to form, he remains defiantly independent.

But now, Manuel faces what may be his toughest battle yet.

He has been diagnosed with Sarcoma—a rare and aggressive cancer affecting both soft tissue and bone. Biopsies have confirmed its presence in both legs, his left chest, and left arm. MRI scans have revealed possible masses in both hips and potentially a lung. Further biopsies are scheduled to confirm. His treatment journey began this week the day after his 38th birthday, on October 6, with a meeting with his oncologist. Surgery is scheduled for November 7 to place a chemotherapy port and conduct additional biopsies. Manuel is suiting up for battle.

As you can imagine, this diagnosis has deeply impacted his ability to work. Despite the pain and fatigue, Manuel plans to continue working as much as he can. His employer is exploring accommodations to help him stay active while respecting his limits. But with reduced hours comes reduced income—and that’s where we need your help.

I’m asking for financial support in any amount. Whether it’s $1, $10, or $100, every contribution helps. This isn’t about one person saving the day—it’s about a village coming together to lift someone who’s given so much of himself to others.

Our goal is to ease the financial burden so Manuel can focus on healing. Donations will go toward rent, bills, and basic living expenses during treatment and recovery.

If you’re unable to give financially, your prayers, well wishes, and—most importantly—a share of this fundraiser can make a world of difference.

Manuel is deeply loved and brings joy to everyone around him. He has the support of his family and closest friends, but he deserves even more. Let’s show him how powerful community can be.

With heartfelt gratitude, I humbly ask for your support.

Please donate and/or share.

Much Aloha and Mahalo,

Shawn Casco