Our family recently received devastating news. My brother, Steven Rivera, has been diagnosed with stage 4 gastric adenocarcinoma (stomach cancer) at just 45 years old. This diagnosis has completely shaken our family and changed our lives overnight.

Steven is the kind of person who always shows up for the people he loves. He is incredibly goal-oriented, supportive, and brilliant, yet he maintains a playful, “big kid” spirit that brings laughter and warmth wherever he goes.

Most importantly, Steven is a devoted father to five children and a proud uncle to his four nieces. He is also raising his 3-year-old grandson Danny with his spouse, guiding him every day with love and patience. With our parents and grandparents no longer with us, Steven is one of the central pillars keeping our family connected.

Steven loves fixing things, riding his motorcycle, cooking, spending time with family, and relaxing with his beloved dog, Clark. These simple joys reflect his creativity, warmth, and dedication to making life meaningful for those around him.

After his diagnosis, doctors discovered that Steven’s cancer may be hereditary, something our family never knew or had the chance to prepare for. He is now beginning an aggressive treatment plan that includes chemotherapy every two weeks, along with a newly approved targeted therapy designed specifically for his type of cancer. He is also undergoing genetic testing and seeking additional expert opinions to make sure he receives the best possible care.

While Steven is approaching this fight with strength and determination, the financial burden of cancer treatment is overwhelming. Medical bills, medications, frequent appointments, travel for second opinions, and time away from work are adding up quickly.

We are starting this fundraiser to help support Steven and his family during this incredibly difficult time. Your support will allow him to focus on what matters most — fighting this disease and being there for his children, grandson, and family.

Your support will help with:

• Medical treatments and hospital expenses

• Travel for specialized cancer care and second opinions

• Medications and supportive therapies

• Everyday living expenses while Steven undergoes treatment

If you are able to donate, please know that every amount — no matter how small — truly makes a difference. If donating is not possible, sharing this page with others would mean so much to our family.

Most of all, we ask for your prayers, encouragement, and positive thoughts as Steven begins this fight. Thank you for standing with Steven and our family during one of the most challenging times of our lives.