On behalf of our entire family, it is with a tremendous sense of loss that we inform you of Patty's passing on January 8th. We would like to thank you all for your generous donations, which will now be used by the Matos family as they continue to re-build during this very difficult time.

May God bless you always,
Helena Smith




Praise the Lord, who carries our burdens day after day; he is the God who saves us.

-Psalm 68:19

 

Dear Friends and Family:

 

As many of you know, our dear cousin Patty Matos was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015. After bravely enduring multiple surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation, and physical therapy, Patty's life eventually returned to "normal". As Patty recalls, her "new normal" included a lifetime of therapy, occasional surgeries ("Band-Aids)", and a nagging fear that the next shoe was about to drop.

 

For Patty, the next shoe dropped in 2019; and since that time, she's been fighting stage IV breast cancer with her usual blend of grit and grace. Despite the heavy physical and emotional burden that comes with metastatic cancer, Patty's positive outlook endures. She continues to be an inspiration to her adoring husband (Rui) and their three wonderful children (Ryan, Bella, and Adelia). And the same can be said for her friends, family, coworkers, and the patients she treats at Atlantic Health Systems.

 

Today, Patty undergoes regular chemotherapy, routine tests, occasional "Band-Aids", and expensive new treatments. Yes, fighting metastatic cancer also takes a heavy financial toll. Although the family's medical insurance covers the cost of Patty's chemotherapy, they don't cover the additional treatments she needs to survive. This is why, during the season of giving (and miracles), we humbly ask for your help.

 

Any contribution, big or small, will help to lessen the financial burden on the Matos family. In doing so, Patty can strengthen her physical and emotional health for the long fight ahead. Meanwhile, her family can focus on cherishing every single moment they get to spend with the greatest wife and mother the world has ever known.

 

Thank you in advance for joining Patty's fight, and may this truly be a season of miracles for all!