Hafa adai,

I am asking for prayers and support for my son, Jermaine Alerta, who needs assistance with an emergency medical procedure. In early May, he began to experience excruciating back pains which made it difficult to do many of life's basic tasks - showering, eating, going to work, sitting up, etc. It was extremely difficult to watch him in pain but, like always, he insisted it was something he could work through. After a doctor's visit, he was referred to have several CT scans done, which resulted in finding out that he had developed an infection in several vertebrae in his spinal cord. After being admitted to the hospital for several days and running several more tests (including a MRI), we were informed on June 22 that Jermaine would need emergency surgery to stabilize the infected and fragile vertebrae in his spinal cord by inserting reinforced steel plating and screws, a procedure that cannot currently be done on island.

We have been advised by his doctors that the best course of action is to travel to the Philippines for completion of the procedure followed by several months of rehabilitation. Although his current medical insurance will cover some expenses, it will not cover all the costs including the cost of someone to accompany him.

I make this appeal for support with a heavy heart. My son has always been so full of life and willing to help anyone who needed it. And now he is need of your help. He always has a smile on his face, is never afraid to share his infectious laugh, and always carries a positive attitude. He has always been dedicated to public service, devoted all he could to his job, and remained committed helping our island of Guam. During this ordeal, he continues to maintain a vibrant and positive attitude. However, our family knows but, more importantly, Jermaine knows that there is a long road ahead to full recovery and return to some sense of normalcy. But we are determined to get through this together and have him return stronger than ever. Any support you can offer will go towards incurring some of the current and future related expenses and is sincerely appreciated.

Thank you and God Bless. You may contact me personally if you have any questions.

His Loving Mother,

Ester Cordero Cruz