This week my sister in law Melanie Heath and her family got the call that you never want to receive - that it was time to say goodbye to her brother Miguel Castro, who, at only 40 years young, after a courageous two year battle with Cancer - passed away on Tuesday February 12, 2019.

Tragically he leaves behind his loving wife and soul mate Camila Castro, who he met on Valentines Day 22 years ago, and their beautiful three year old daughter Genesis - who brought him so much joy. 

Since receiving the cancer diagnosis two year ago, it's been far from easy for this beautiful family. In an effort to win the battle against cancer, both traditional and non traditional treatments were pursued. These treatments were costly and not covered by insurance, placing huge financial strain on the family, with the family having to use their life savings and retirement funds in an effort to save Miguel's life. For most of the time throughout his illness, Miguel was unable to work, and Camila had to take regular unpaid leave to support her husband.

As well as dealing with the loss of her husband and soul mate and the thought of raising her child alone - Camila still has large medical bills to pay, and wants dearly to be able to afford to stay in her family home with Genesis, where memories were created together and where they have the support of Miguel's family just a few doors away.

Those who knew Miguel, knew he had a heart of gold. A beautiful soul, he was kind, passionate and fun loving. He had a great sense of humor, a quick wit and was a brilliant writer - as well as being the greatest Longhorns fan. He enthusiastically rallied together a local community volleyball team - bringing together people from all over. More than anything else though, he loved his family, and cherished them dearly - especially his wife and daughter. 

All funds donated here will go directly to Miguels wife - Camila Castro to provide some financial support during this extremely tough time - to help her get through the bills and enable her to stay in her family home. Please donate and help this family in any way you can - from $5 to $500, every cent counts, and I know will be dearly appreciated by the family.

A few final words - that Camila wrote this morning, in honor of his memory:

"Michael, my first true and only love. It was exactly 22 years ago today that we met. Who knew from that casual meeting on that Valentine’s Day that our lives would be forever changed. In going through our love letters and memorabilia yesterday I came across a letter I wrote to you in which I quoted this poem. I felt every single word of that poem at that time and now more than 20 years later I feel each and every word a million times more. You were exactly what I needed. You were the yin to my yang. Your zest for life drew me in. You were so excited about doing so many things, and I am now so grateful that I joined you for the ride. I know the last two years were the most difficult ever. You endured so much all so you could have more time with Genesis and me. I am so proud of you. And as I held your hand when you took your last breath and left this earth, I pray you heard the words I whispered in your ear. My love, until we meet again on the other side, I will always carry you in my heart.
How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of being and ideal grace.
I love thee to the level of every day's
Most quiet need, by sun and candle-light.
I love thee freely, as men strive for right.
I love thee purely, as they turn from praise.
I love thee with the passion put to use
In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints. I love thee with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life; and, if God choose,
I shall but love thee better after death."

Thank you for your support.