Help Carmen Beat Cancer

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 (Stage 1) in August 2020. I went straight to Stanford, had surgery, and was told they got it all — no chemo or radiation needed. I was so ready to ring that bell and never look back.

Unfortunately, the cancer has returned (Stage 2b:T2 1). I may need another major surgery. I will have to wear a chemotherapy bag for 96 hours starting 7/20/2025. And again 4 weeks later. And radiation will follow starti g on 7/22/2025 for a minimun of 6 weeks. My heart has also grown weaker over the past year (left ventricle is pumpint at 35%) 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 or after the tough road ahead.

My surgical consultation was Thursday, June 26, 2025, and surgery could happen immediately after treatment.

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.

Donation Tiers:

$20 — Meals for a day

$50 — Gas or groceries

$100 — Hotel night

$250+ — Covers one full day of travel/lodging/support

With gratitude,

Carmen Cruz

#CancerSurgery #SingleMom #StanfordTrip #FamilyHealing