Friends, Family and Kind Strangers, My name is Monique, My parents are Al and Juanita. Many know them as outgoing, caring, strong willed and all around amazing people who always put themselves out there to help out anyone in need regardless of the situation. We are now having to ask for help and your support.

They relocated to Cincinnati OH from Santa Fe NM in Aug, 2023 to help my brother get settled into a home and spend time with his ageing dad and family, with plans to return back to NM Aug. 2024. Unfortunately life took an unexpected turn. In Feb, my dad ended up in the ER with chest pain and difficulty breathing. He was admitted to the hospital where he had several tests and labs done. the labs concluded that he had stage IV congestive heart failure (Amyloidosis) When we received the news we were in such disbelief as to how a strong, healthy and active person can be in the advanced stage of heart failure. With many tests, a heart biopsy and a bone marrow biopsy we also learned that he had a rare form of blood cancer (Multiple Myeloma) that had be undiagnosed for many years and is the contributor to his heart failure.

He is now on his 9th week of Chemotherapy infusions and radiation to try to slow down the progression and has not felt well since the start of his infusions. He has been fighting everyday while we continue to pray for his recovery. Despite his determination and strength, last week brought another challenge as he was rushed to the ER, we discovered that he had a perforated bowel and was taken in for emergency surgery and has been hospitalized since. Granted his chemotherapy treatments are being postponed until he is healed. He now faces a long uncertain journey.

The frequent visits and stays in the hospital has been very stressful and this all has been life changing for the both of them. With talks about a possible steam cell replacement and a heart transplant in the future granted the cancer is controlled.

This has been incredibly tough, both emotionally and financially. My dads last day of work was May 30 2024 and my mom continues to work as she cares for my dads all around personal and medical needs as well as their day to day living expenses. She also transports him to all his appointments. She hopes that she will be able to maintain this for a while and keep her job so she can offset the bills that are mounting and the bills that will be accrued. We know that they have a home in NM to return to, where finances may be somewhat lighter for them, but unfortunately the medical care he needs is just not available in NM.

The road ahead is fraught with many challenges and our hearts ach with worry of what lays ahead. We are humbly asking for your support during this difficult time whether its through donation or simply sharing this. Any help would mean the world to us.

Thank you all for your kindness, generosity and prayers. We are deeply grateful for any and all the support you can provide. Also thank you to all who have reached out to our family with concerns and support.

Please continue to pray for healing for my dad as he fights this battle and through these difficult times.

With heartfelt thanks,

Al & Juanita Martinez and Family