Hello, my name is Francisco “Pancho” Ramirez, and I am 43 years old. Since 2003, I have been paralyzed and unable to speak, living in a skilled nursing facility in Sonoma, California.

You may know me as someone who was able to communicate through a groundbreaking brain implant, done at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). This helps people communicate through a “thought to speech” brain-computer interface, and even control a robotic arm with their thoughts.

I joined the UCSF study in 2018. For six incredible years, I proudly contributed to this pioneering project that pushed the boundaries of science and human connection. But on July 17, 2025, my participation in the study came to an end.

Last year, I suffered an infection near my implant port that required surgery, tightening of loose screws, and a full month of IV antibiotics. The implant has declined, and my time with the study has reached its close.

Thankfully, I have fully recovered, and I am grateful for the care and friendship I received from the team at UCSF.

During this journey, I also had the honor of joining the Board of Directors at CommunicationFIRST, an organization that advocates for the rights of people who can’t rely on speech alone to be heard and understood.

I love to be able to serve and be part of this organization because of its noble mission and the people involved in it.

Now, after more than 26 years in the United States, I am preparing for my next chapter: to return home to Mexico—to my roots, my family, and my homeland.

It will be a major transition. I will live with my sister, not in a nursing facility, as such care simply doesn’t exist where I’m going. There is no government support for people with disabilities, and survival depends entirely on one’s own means.

That’s why I’m reaching out for your help.

I need to purchase essential medical equipment, arrange travel back to Mexico, and, hopefully, secure a used, accessible minivan so I can reach hospitals and clinics when needed.

These are not luxuries—they are the foundation of a dignified life and a safe return home.

To make this possible, I will need to raise $25,000 by 01/05/2026.

I believe in miracles. I’ve seen science achieve the impossible, and I hold on to faith that life will continue to bring blessings in unexpected ways. Hopefully, I can continue to be on the board of directors for CommunicationFIRST, as well.

If you can contribute—large or small—you will help me take this next step with peace, safety, and hope.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Francisco “Pancho” Ramirez