6/27/25

From Niko, 2 weeks after hospital discharge

Dear family and friends,

I am so happy to be HOME … after many weeks in the hospital to manage a really serious case of Valley Fever. I can finally send out an update myself (with family help), and respond to your kind words and offers of help.

Update

As many of you know, I somehow inhaled a spore of the Valley Fever fungus. Unfortunately, my body reacted much more dramatically than most people’s. Four months ago, I started treating what I thought were muscle strains, flu and even a bacterial infection – but these symptoms didn’t go away. Finally, after a preliminary cancer diagnosis and local emergency room visit, I was taken by ambulance to UCSF on 4/29. I was finally diagnosed with a very complicated case of Valley

Fever. I had three surgeries to stabilize/replace several disintegrated cervical vertebrae, drain many pockets of infection in my neck and chest, and repair a hole in my throat – all caused by the fungus.

I’m very relieved to be done with weeks of tube feedings, ventilator-assisted breathing, and IVs full of pain meds and antifungals. Now I can walk and talk and eat REAL food - but I have a long way to go. The doctors say I can’t work for a year, and will need at least a year of physical therapy to regain mobility in my shoulders, arms and neck (which is still supported by a cervical collar for another month). I will also need to regain a lot of body weight and muscle. Right now my arms look like sticks, and I’m down from 160 to 130 pounds.

Help

I’m lucky that my insurance covered all my medical expenses. I’m also really grateful that my girlfriend Ana and neighbors have been able to manage the property we caretake as well as our goat herd while holding down their full-time jobs. However, I unfortunately can’t do any money-making work in my landscaping and firewood business for at least a year, so I could sure use your support.

It’s not easy for me to ask for help (just ask my mom), but it would really help me if you could contribute to my GoFundMe account. Funds will be used to cover some basic expenses during the next year, including utilities, food, goat care and physical therapy (beyond the few weeks my insurance will allow).

Most important

I have been overwhelmed by the love and support so many of you have shown through your letters, texts and calls. THANK YOU. I had no idea so many people cared so much! I realize now that I have lots of people to help during my life: I want to ‘pay forward’ all the people who have helped me get better.

Sincerely,

Niko (Antonio) Oliver

PS: This GoFundMe is being organized by Niko’s family. It will be

managed by his mom, Jo, with major help from his girlfriend, Ana. They will coordinate his care and cover essential bills until he’s able to do so.