On January 17, 2025, we received a phone call, not one of your usual calls. When we answered, our family was struck with some devastating news that changed all of our lives dramatically. But the one who walks around with the weight more is my boyfriend, Raul Gallardo.

He was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma Cancer, stage 2. Ever since then, he has suffered with aching pain within his body, tears that fill our rooms, and long nights in the hospital. Feeding tubes, many scans, and just now he's on his journey for radiation. His parents and siblings suffer from the pain of seeing their son, their big/little brother, knowing they can only give their love and support, wishing they could take all the pain away.

We come here to share his story. Before Raul was diagnosed, he was working as an electric apprentice, working to support his family. He had just graduated from high school along with trade school. Shortly after, he was struck by the changing news. From then he had to put down everything to answer calls and attend to many doctor visits, long nights in the hospital, and long, uncomfortable rides for radiation.

His life changed so fast that he couldn't even realize it. Throughout this storm, one thing that hasn't changed is his love and support he has to offer.

So we come here today to ask you, family and friends. Support us with prayers, words of encouragement. But truly, anything is a blessing. Raul's support system is big, meaning doctors, nurses, family, and friends. We ask that you make it even bigger. I'd like to thank everyone who's helped us with this journey and for the new coming. Thank you, too, and God bless y'all.

From the Gallardo family