Joel Llopiz and Martha Hauff's Support Fund

You are no doubt here because you are a friend of Joel and Martha. In one way or

another, we have all been touched by their presence in our community and our lives. In October, Joel was diagnosed with grade IV brain cancer (glioblastoma) and this little family’s world was turned upside down. Joel underwent an initial surgery on October 19th, 2022. Since then, he completed a six-week round of radiation, and is continuing with chemotherapy and variety of targeted treatments under the care of the neuro-oncology team at Dana Farber Cancer Institute. These treatments, however, likely won’t be enough to fend off the disease, and Joel’s doctors think his best shot may be a novel, individualized anti-cancer vaccine being pioneered by the CeGaT lab in Tübingen, Germany. (See M and J’s May 3rd update below.)

The CeGaT vaccine is promising but costly. It will require at least 11 repeat trips to Germany to receive boosters every 4-6 weeks, and none of the treatment or the travel expenses are covered by insurance. The total out-of-pocket cost for Joel to receive this international treatment will be over $120,000.

So many of you have already contributed generously, and now an anonymous donor is offering an incredible matching gift. This friend has pledged to match every donation from May 3rd until Joel leaves for his first trip to Germany, up to $10,000! Joel’s personalized version of the vaccine will hopefully be ready in late July, so whatever we can raise before then will be doubled up to $10,000!

The friend who offered up this matching gift said he’s doing it for Silas—he wants to do everything he can to make sure Silas grows up with his dad by his side. A powerful sentiment indeed.

Any extra funds that remain after managing Joel's treatment will go to a college fund for Silas.

From Martha:

Thank you so much to everyone who has reached out. We continue to be humbled and

infinitely grateful for the food, the fun distractions for Silas, and the kind words and

wishes. Your love and support have been the silver lining of this whole experience.

And see Martha and Joel’s May 3rd update below!