Help Mariela Fight Cancer

It pains me to write this…my beautiful wife and the loving Mother of my two children has been diagnosed with Stage 3 Breast Cancer. The last few weeks for us as a family have been difficult, while we piece together our new reality. The past few weeks have been filled with a hurricane of emotions, disbelief, and endless information. Despite the struggles, we are finally on board with a treatment plan.

On June 16th, my wife received news that no woman ever wants to hear. She was diagnosed with “Invasive Ductal Carcinoma”. Unfortunately, the cancer has infiltrated her lymph nodes as well. My wife had to be treated immediately in efforts to stop the spread and growth of the cancer. She started chemotherapy on July 22nd in hopes that the size of the current masses will shrink significantly before her surgery. Her chemotherapy will be followed by a mastectomy, radiation, and breast reconstruction.

My wife has an amazing team of doctors who are guiding us through this difficult journey. The doctors have informed us that the chemotherapy along with the other treatments will be very hard on her body and consequently leave her with a very compromised immune system. My wife was advised to take time off work in order to fully focus on her treatment and recovery. Unfortunately, that has resulted in the loss of half our household income. Our family has a daunting road ahead, and we are going to need some help.

Our family and friends have encouraged us to set up this donation page as a way for people to help. It’s new for us to ask for help in this manner, but we are beyond thankful for all the love and support that we have received already. We are truly blessed with a strong support system, and now more than ever, we need your help.

We all know who my wife is…selfless, thoughtful, joyous and about the most optimistic person that sheds great energy in hopes that others will feed off it. With your support and her desire to live, I know she will get through this, even under the most challenging circumstances. I ask that you pray for my wife and our family throughout this difficult journey. If you have the means to donate, any amount would be greatly appreciated (no amount is too small). If you are currently unable to donate, please consider sharing this link with your loved ones. Our family truly appreciates any form of assistance.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your love and continued support.
-Francisco