My wife, Ines Tineo, was only 26 years old, when she was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer that has spread to her spine and ribs. Hearing those words from the doctor shattered our world. It came at a time when we were supposed to be living some of the happiest days of our lives—Ines had just gotten pregnant with the daughter we had always dreamed of. We had plans, a stable job, and the hope of building a home full of love for our little girl.

In December, the doctor diagnosed Ines with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. Further blood tests revealed she carried the ATM mutation, which means she was at risk of developing cancer in any part of her body. After giving birth to our daughter, more complications began to appear.

In April 2024, she underwent surgery to remove the mass from her breast and began radiotherapy. At first, the doctors were uncertain about which treatment would work best. They initially believed she wouldn’t need chemotherapy, but later concluded it might be the most effective option. Sadly, her health continued to deteriorate. By November, two more masses had grown in the same breast. Multiple biopsies confirmed it was the same cancer—but this time, it had spread to her ribs and spine, leaving her with two fractures which made her daily life painful.

Since the diagnosis, she has endured countless CT scans, biopsies, lab tests, failed radiotherapy, and endless complications. Some days, the pain is so unbearable that she can hardly breathe or walk. She can’t bathe, carry, or even try to comb our daughter’s hair. She had to give up her job, since even working from home became too difficult. What started as a minor pain has turned into a nightmare that attacks her in so many different forms that it is almost impossible for her to do anything. Every day, I see her trapped in a cycle of turmoil, wondering what to do, and fearing whether she will be able to watch our now almost two-year-old daughter grow up.

Doctors have told us she will need lifelong chemotherapy, along with continued therapy, lab work, scans, supplements, and a healthy lifestyle. But with our current resources, we simply cannot afford it. We have faith that going to Mexico, where she can receive countless therapies and a different approach to cancer, will give her hope for healing. Every bit of support brings us one step closer to that journey. You can help by sharing her story, donating, and keeping her in your thoughts and prayers.