Standing with Michael - One breath, one step, one day at a time.

Dearest friends, family, and kind strangers,

I’m writing this with a heart full of both hope and disbelief. As many of you know, my dad has dedicated his life to bringing out the best in everyone he meets through teaching, coaching, and leading by example. His generosity has extended far past just the people he works with, but to his friends and loved ones, and the communities he's been a part of. Today, I’m asking for your help and your generosity to support my incredible father as he faces a life threatening situation.

My dad has been diagnosed with cancer, and treatment decisions are being made right now. We are doing everything in our power to give him his best chance - but my parents don’t have the financial means to cover the incredible costs associated with the treatment.

To be honest, I’m still in shock that we’re here. My parents were on the cusp of a new chapter. After a lifetime of hard work, they were quite literally finalizing plans to retire, looking forward to a simple, quiet life together outside the country. Their dream was to open a little sandwich shop in a beach town abroad, make delicious meals, participate in a small community, and live peaceful days. But those dreams were shattered just as they were written. They had done the research and just set the date when my father noticed a strange, persistent cough that led to the devastating diagnosis we face today.

My father has been diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma in his throat, most likely in Stage 3. We are seeking care at Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, a facility which is one of the best in the world, particularly in treating head, neck and throat cancers.

The timing of this diagnosis couldn't have been at a more dire time: just when it was most critical, my mom’s safety net was pulled out from under her. My mom has always had excellent federal insurance to cover both of my parents - until her position as a civilian employee was under siege in this turbid political environment (yes, the one involving Elon Musk and DOGE). Overnight, my parents went from stable coverage to uncertainty at the very moment they need support most. Now, as we face the biggest health crisis of our lives, we are navigating it without that crucial support.

For those of you who know my dad, you know he is a rock for so many. For over 55 years my dad has been supporting people - most recently as a leadership specialist at the naval shipyard and a dedicated coach - his life's work has been to lift others up. He is always there for you on time, fully present and engaged, offering his unwavering support and advice to bring out the very best in you no matter where you find yourself. What many of his coachees may not know is how incredibly humble he is. He would never ask for help for himself, even now. His focus on helping others carry their burdens means he would bear his own in silence, which is why I am putting this page together.

On a deeply personal note, my dad saved my life. He came into my world when I was a depressed and struggling 13-year-old. He saw my potential immediately, he understood me for who I am, and he showed me a love that I had never known which pulled me from a very dark place. He is the reason I am the man I am today. Now, it's my turn to do everything in my power to return that life-saving favor.

This is why I’m reaching out to you, our incredible network of friends, family, and community, to help us save him. We want to give him the best chance to fight this disease without the crushing weight of financial stress, to allow him to focus on healing.

Our Financial Need:

We are fundraising for two possible scenarios, and we promise to be completely transparent with how every dollar is used.

Scenario 1: Treatment is Mostly Covered by Insurance ($85,000)

If we are fortunate enough to have a significant portion of the treatment covered by insurance we can secure, we will still face substantial out-of-pocket costs. This includes high deductibles, co-pays & co-insurance, travel for specialized care, lodging in New York City, medical devices, loss of income during the treatment, recovery related expenses, and other essential uncovered treatments.

Scenario 2: Treatment is Not Significantly Covered ($300,000)

In the devastating event that insurance does not cover the majority of the recommended treatment or we lose his insurance during the long treatment process, the financial burden will be immense. This amount would go towards the entirety of his medical care - from chemotherapy and radiation to surgery and any potential clinical trials.

Your contribution, no matter the size, will bring us one step closer to ensuring my dad gets the life-saving care he needs and so richly deserves. If my dad has ever inspired you, supported you, made you laugh, welcomed you, or made you feel like family please consider giving what you can. Your donation is more than just money; it’s a powerful act of love that will help us fight for the joyful, love-filled future he deserves. I urge you to think of all the times my father has helped you and the people you love in your gift.

Thank you for taking the time to read our story. Please share this with anyone you think might be able to help.

With all my family's love and gratitude,

Matthew Bianco-Splann