Help “TEMO’ a Veteran, Father, and Fighter Battle Stage 4 Cancer

My name is Raul Velasquez, and I’m creating this GoFundMe page on behalf of my coworker and dear friend, Thomas J. Ryan-known to everyone simply as TEMO - who was recently diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic bladder cancer. Due to the severity of his condition, Temo is currently out of work and in urgent need of financial assistance to help with medical bills, daily living expenses, and transportation to and from treatments.

Temo grew up in the small town of Mahopac, NY, just north of the Bronx. Like many kids, he spent his childhood playing football, riding bikes, and living life to the fullest. After high school, his passion for music led him to a career in mainstream radio, where he opened for country music legends like Clint Black, Wynonna Judd, Kenny Rogers, SheDaisy, Trisha Yearwood, and more.

After his music contract ended, he felt a call to serve and joined the U.S. Navy, then the U.S. Marine Corps, completing six years of military service. It was during this time he discovered his passion for force protection. After his military career, Temo returned to music, becoming one of Tampa Bay’s top club DJs, and even stepped into the ring as a professional MMA fighter, finishing with a 5-0 record. He later became a federal contractor specializing in force protection.

More than anything, Temo is a proud father. He has two daughters: Brianna (25), who plans to become an EMT/Firefighter, and Darby (20), who is considering a career in cosmetology. They are his everything.

Today, Temo is facing the toughest battle of his life. The cancer has spread to his lungs, rib, spine, clavicle, liver, and kidney. Without treatment, doctors have given him just three months to live. With treatment, he could have at least another year—hopefully longer. He begins treatment this Thursday.

We’re asking for your support to help Temo fight this battle with strength, peace, and dignity. Every donation, no matter how big or small, will make a direct impact. Please consider helping this amazing father, veteran, and friend. Thank you for your love, prayers, and support.