Supporting Marcelino and His Family

In early November, Marcelino’s family received life-changing news. After months of searching for answers, Marcelino was diagnosed with XLP2, an extremely rare genetic immune disorder. The diagnosis finally gave clarity to what his body has been facing—but it also revealed just how serious the road ahead would be.

To survive and to have a chance at a healthy future, Marcelino will need a bone marrow transplant.

Marcelino is one of four children and is deeply loved by his three sisters. Through genetic testing, the family learned that all three sisters are carriers of XLP2, which means they are unable to serve as donors. Because of this, Marcelino’s transplant will come from a generous, unrelated donor—a stranger who may soon become a lifesaving hero in his story.

The Road Ahead

A bone marrow transplant is considered a curative treatment for XLP2. Without it, the disease can become life-threatening. With it, Marcelino has a real chance at a full, healthy life.

The transplant is currently planned for May at the family’s local children’s hospital. While that brings comfort, the process itself is long and intense. It involves extensive preparation, long hospital stays, and a recovery period that will take time, patience, and constant care.

This season will require the family to put everything else on hold to be fully present for Marcelino.

How Your Support Helps

Even with insurance and local care, the financial strain of a bone marrow transplant is overwhelming. This fundraiser exists to help ease some of that burden so the family can focus on what matters most: Marcelino’s healing.

Funds raised will help cover unavoidable expenses such as:

Time away from work and lost income

Travel to and from frequent medical appointments

Meals and daily living expenses during extended hospital stays

Unexpected costs that arise during treatment and recovery

Every contribution—no matter the size—helps create breathing room during an incredibly demanding time.

A Note About Donations

All donations made through this GoFundMe are voluntary personal gifts given to support the family during a medical journey. No goods or services are provided in exchange for donations, and contributions are not payments for medical care or services.

Funds will be used to help offset household and care-related expenses while the family navigates transplant and recovery.

Holding Onto Hope

XLP2 is incredibly rare, and this diagnosis has been overwhelming. And yet—there is real hope. A curative treatment exists. The donor search is underway, and several promising matches have already brought encouragement and renewed strength.

Above all else, the family is asking for prayer. Prayers for Marcelino, for a donor to be confirmed, for strength and peace throughout the transplant process, and for healing in the months ahead mean more than words can express.

Every donation, every share, and every message of support surrounds this family with love and reminds them they are not walking this road alone.

Thank you for helping carry them through this season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are donations tax-deductible?

Donations made through this GoFundMe are not tax-deductible, as they are personal gifts.

Will donations be taxed as income?

Donations are intended as personal gifts to support the family during a medical crisis. No goods or services are exchanged in return for donations.

Will updates be shared?

Yes. Updates will be shared as the family approaches Marcelino’s transplant in May and throughout his recovery.