Help Me Get to Stanford for Cancer Surgery — With My Kids

Hi, my name is Carmen Cruz, and I’m humbly asking for help to cover the cost of a critical trip to Stanford Surgical Hospital for cancer treatment. I was first diagnosed with an aggressive form of rectal cancer in August 2020. I went straight to Stanford, had surgery, and was told they got it all — no chemo or radiation needed. Picture of surgery and next visit included. I was so ready to ring that bell and never look back.

Unfortunately, the cancer has returned. I now need another major surgery, and this time, chemo will follow — for at least 8 months. My heart has also grown weaker over the past year, which makes surgery even riskier. I’ve been a single mom for most of my children’s lives, and I’ve never had the means to take them on vacation or even a simple trip. But this moment — as difficult as it is — gives us a chance to be together and make memories before the tough road ahead.

My surgical consultation is Thursday, June 26, 2025, and surgery could happen immediately after. We're trying to raise $3,500–$4,000 to cover:

• A 5-night hotel stay in the Stanford/San Jose area

• Travel and food costs for me and my kids

• One fun day together before I begin surgery prep

• A safe and comfortable space for recovery during those critical first days

Here’s our rough plan:

• Day 1 – Arrive, check into the hotel, and settle in

• Day 2 – A special day with my kids before I begin surgical prep

• Day 3 – Prepping for surgery

• Day 4 – Surgery day (my kids will stay nearby to support me)

• Day 5 – Rest and watch for any complications

• Day 6 – Check out and travel back home

This is more than just a medical trip — it's our first real “family trip” ever. One day to laugh and be together before the storm. One time to feel a little normal in a moment that’s anything but.

If you can give — even a little — it would mean the world. If you can’t, please consider sharing. Every act of kindness helps us take this step forward.

With gratitude,

Carmen Cruz

#CancerSurgery #SingleMom #StanfordTrip #FamilyHealing