Honoring Tony’s Wishes during his Final Journey

Dear Family/friends and Compassionate souls

I’m Tony, some may know me as TKO. My story is full of redemption, unity and showcasing the power of love. Today I’m sharing a bit of my story with you as I face a tough battle against Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer. In prison in 2021 after fighting to be seen by a doctor I was finally given the news that I had Stage 4 cancer. This news took me on an emotional rollercoaster from an already stressful situation. I am glad to have my brother Luis with me during these times, but this news was one that I didn’t understand how to accept. I received the news that I was given the chance to leave prison after 23 years due to cancer. Leaving my brother behind in prison was no easy news with his faith in me to live out my time with the rest of my family. This gave me hope.

But just like everyone else, life is full of ups and downs but also love and faith. With a heavy heart, I’m asking for help from YOU to fulfill my last wish.

I was sentenced to 25 years to life. I accepted this sentence to learn through punishment. I lost many people while locked up and losing my parents is what hurt the most. I lost my mother in 2013 and my father in 2015. Both requests to see my parents at their funeral were denied and I was hurt in silence behind those bars, along with my brother.

Elsie, the love of my life stood by me from afar and through it all. Through the years she kept my spirits up with her letters, emails and phone calls. I was reunited with my love in 2021. It felt like a dream come true. We cherished every moment, made up for lost time and she decided to stick by me through this dire time in my life.

Despite the darkness that clouded my life for more than two decades, I have never lost faith and during these trying circumstances I have persevered with the love of my children. As they grew older there was no love lost.

My kids Amanda, Anthony, and Colton make my days brighter through the pain. The love of my children kept me afloat and after my release I even found out I had a wonderful daughter, named Shay.

I have seven grand children and was able to meet all of them due to my release, Blessing in disguised.

I was released in 2021 and was told I had 6 months left to live. I am here today in 2023.

Now that cancer has weakened me. I’m preparing for the end of my journey. It’s both sad and comforting to know that I have a chance to help financially as I depart.

We don’t get time back and it is our most valuable possession. Thank you for taking your time to read through these lines.

All prayers are answered even if they don’t look the way you ask for them.

I hope this gives you some faith, love and hope.

My Last Request

I’m asking for your help with four things:

1. Funeral Cost: I want a dignified farewell. Your help will cover the cost of the service, casket, and a peaceful resting place.

2. Memorial Gathering: I’d love to be remembered with love. Your donations will help organize a gathering where friends and family can share stories and find comfort in each other’s company.

3. Support for My Family: Elsie and her four children who’ve been my strength will need support. Your kindness will help with their emotional and financial wellbeing.

As I prepare for what lies beyond. Your donations, whether big or small mean the world to me. It ensures that my final journey is filled with love and remembrance, I can leave without being a burden on their pockets.

I hope my memories live on through the memories we shared.

Thank you for your kindness, your generosity, and your support for my final wishes.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Tony TKO