My name is Maria Paez, and I am fundraising for my brother, Santiago, who was recently diagnosed with an aggressive form of testicular cancer that has spread to his lungs, liver, and brain.
In June, Santiago suddenly became unable to walk due to severe pain. After visiting an ER in New Jersey without receiving answers, he took an emergency flight to Colombia to seek care. As soon as he landed, his health declined rapidly—he lost control of his left hand and was rushed to the ER, where he was later admitted to the ICU. Doctors immediately began testing and discovered that he had cancer which had already metastasized, causing brain lesions and bleeding.
Thanks to the urgency of the medical team in Colombia, Santiago was able to begin chemotherapy right away. He has already undergone two of the four recommended sessions, and until recently, he was showing signs of improvement. Sadly, life took a difficult turn. On September 2nd, Santiago turned 27 years old. Just two days later, on September 4th, he suffered a severe seizure that required hospitalization. Since then, his condition has become critical—he is now intubated and sedated to prevent further seizures, and he has been throwing up blood due to complications.
Santiago is incredibly strong and determined, but one of the biggest stressors he faces right now is financial. While he undergoes treatment, he still has rent and everyday expenses back home in New Jersey, as well as the cost of traveling to and from the clinic in Colombia.
I want to give my brother the gift of peace of mind—the ability to focus only on healing without worrying about how he will keep up with bills. All donations will go directly toward:
Covering his rent and essential bills
Transportation to and from medical appointments
Day-to-day living expenses while he cannot work
Any amount, no matter how small, will make a difference. If you aren’t able to donate, sharing this fundraiser is just as meaningful.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your kindness, generosity, and prayers.