Just as life began to feel manageable again, the ground gave out beneath them.

In October 2025, after a series of falls and troubling symptoms, Marta was diagnosed with glioblastoma—an aggressive and fast-moving form of brain cancer that upended her and Mike’s world almost overnight.

For 48 years, Mike and Marta have built a life defined by love, resilience, and unwavering partnership. Through every chapter, they have shown up for each other—especially when Mike was diagnosed with Parkinson’s and Marta became his advocate, caregiver, and constant source of strength.

Now, they are facing something neither of them could have prepared for.

My name is Bethann, and I’m Marta’s sister.

Over the past eight months, I’ve had a front-row seat to what Mike and Marta are going through—and it has been both inspiring and heartbreaking.

I’ve watched their courage. But I’ve also seen the physical toll, emotional strain, and growing financial pressure of trying to manage two serious illnesses at once.

Our family is doing everything we can—but we cannot do this alone.

Within a week of her diagnosis, Marta underwent brain surgery, with doctors able to remove 90% of the tumor. She showed incredible strength in her recovery, even celebrating their 48th wedding anniversary during rehab.

Following surgery came chemotherapy, radiation, and complications, including brain swelling and severe steroid side effects.

Reflecting on that time, Marta shares:

“I became someone else. I was so angry and I was lashing out at the one person I love most.”

Today, Marta is using the Optune Gio device, offering hope to slow tumor progression and extend her life.

At the same time, Mike—living with Parkinson’s—is doing everything he can to care for her. He has had to stop the boxing therapy that helped him stay strong, and his condition is beginning to worsen without it.

The Reality They Are Facing

The cost of care now exceeds $20,000 per month out-of-pocket—quickly overwhelming their savings and fixed income.

How You Can Help

We are hoping to raise funds to cover just a few months of essential care and support so Mike and Marta can focus on what matters most:

comfort, dignity, and time together.

Your Support Will Help:

Every contribution—no matter the size—makes a meaningful difference.

If you cannot give, simply sharing this story helps more than you know.

Thank you for standing with Mike and Marta.