06.30.2025

Update on Matt’s Recovery Journey

Dear Supporters,

We wanted to share an important update on Matt’s condition. The tumor was back. On June 23 Matt underwent his third surgery and is currently still in the hospital recovering. He’s expected to be discharged soon. In about two weeks, his next round of chemotherapy is scheduled to begin.

These days have been incredibly difficult for Matt, both physically and emotionally. Your kind messages and words of encouragement have meant so much to him—they lift his spirits and help him stay strong. Thank you for being there.

As his close friends, we do our best to support him through every step of this journey. We are updating this campaign again to help cover his rent, bills, and other essential expenses during this time.

Every donation makes a real difference. If you’re able, please consider sharing this campaign with your network, friends, or any groups who may be able to help.

With deep gratitude,

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UPDATE: 4.23.2025

Dear Supporters,

We wanted to share an update on Mert’s journey as he bravely fights through his treatment. The good news is his MRI result is clear. He is currently in the fourth month of chemotherapy, and while he remains strong in spirit, the side effects are becoming increasingly difficult.

As many of you know, going through chemotherapy is not only physically exhausting but emotionally and financially challenging as well. Unfortunately, due to his condition, Mert cannot work during this time.

He still has about two more months of chemotherapy ahead, and your continued support is more important than ever. Every donation helps cover essential living expenses like rent, groceries, and other expenses —easing the burden so Mert can focus on healing.

Thank you for standing by him. Your kindness, messages, and generosity mean more than words can express.

He still doesn’t receive any support from EDD and SSN.

With gratitude,

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UPDATE; 1.20.2025

Dear Supporters,

We wanted to share an update on Matt’s journey and express our deepest gratitude for the incredible support you’ve provided throughout this challenging time.

Six weeks of chemotherapy and radiation have been completed, and we’re thrilled to share that the results from Matt’s MRI, six months after his surgery, are promising. His condition is stable, and the treatment has been effective so far.

Matt has now entered the third phase of his chemotherapy treatment, which is expected to 6 months. This phase has brought new challenges. As you know chemotherapy has a lot of side affect and he is dealing with them. This has made it increasingly difficult for him to manage daily life, including basic needs like rent, bills, groceries, and other expenses.

We’re reaching out once again to ask for your continued support. Any contribution, big or small, can make a tremendous difference in easing the financial burden and allowing Matt to focus on his recovery.

Thank you for being part of Matt’s journey. Your kindness and generosity mean the world to us, and we’re so grateful to have you by our side.

Unfortunately, EDD disability and SSN does not support.

With heartfelt thanks,

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Support Matt‘s Brain Surgery Recovery

Matt, a devoted father of two, has spent his life telling the stories that matter—capturing history, creating documentaries, and advocating for those in need. But now, Matt’s story has taken an unexpected turn.

Matt began experiencing severe migraines, muscle pain, and troubling memory and speech difficulties. On July 20, after seeking emergency care, Matt was diagnosed with a 3.8 cm brain tumor in a critical area of his brain responsible for memory, speech, and movement. The doctors warned us of the seriousness of his condition, and six days later, on July 26, Matt underwent a 5.5-hour surgery to remove the tumor. The surgery was successful, but it came with challenges, including temporary vision loss in his right eye.

Thanks to the skilled medical team and the grace of God, Matt’s surgery was a success. He made remarkable progress, starting to drink liquids just hours after the operation, eating the next day, and walking within days. After 7 days in the ICU and 6 more days on the hospital floor, Matt was finally discharged on August 8.

The Road Ahead:

Matt’s journey is far from over. He now faces the second phase of his treatment—radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The road to recovery will be long and challenging, but with your support, we believe Matt can overcome this.

How You Can Help:

1. Prayers: Your thoughts and prayers mean the world to Matt and his family as they navigate this difficult time.

2. Financial Support: The costs of treatment, rehabilitation, and daily living expenses are overwhelming. Your generous donations will help cover the costs of Matt’s ongoing medical care, therapy, and support for his family during his recovery.

UPDATE;

There is an urgent need to move to a new house before Matt begins his radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatments. This move is crucial because the new house will need to have a special room to accommodate his recovery and medical needs during this process.

About Matt:

Matt (Mert Turkoglu) is a 50-year-old filmmaker, historian, and advocate. He has dedicated years to researching and sharing the rich history of Hi Jolly and Quartzsite, Arizona, and is the producer and director of the Hi Jolly documentary. He is currently working on his first book, “The Beale Road and the U.S. Camel Corps,” which chronicles American transport history in the Southwest.

In addition to his creative work, Matt is an Employability Champion for the Department of Rehabilitation, where he creates career opportunities for people with disabilities.

Matt is a loving father to two wonderful children, His family is his greatest treasure, and they need your help during this challenging time.

Thank You:

We are deeply grateful for your prayers, donations, and support. Together, we can help Matt on his journey to recovery and ensure that he continues to share the stories that inspire us all.