Hello friends- my name is Sarah and I am making this GoFundMe to support my friend, Leon Sabbas, who is in the fight of his life.

Leon's medical issues became critical in early February of this year. He has lived with Colitis for the past ten years, but after having bouts of Giardia, Mycobacterium, Campylobacter, and Diverticulitis, his Colitis became out of control. Each with their respective hospitalization, treatments and associated costs, these bacterial infections were particularly devastating because the Colitis medication left him with a compromised immune system. In just a few months, Leon has lost over 60 lbs. Forced to stay home and recuperate, while preparing for the next steps of his care plan, he has had to rely on family, friends and home health aids for the basic tasks of daily living and care of his son. As his condition has persisted, unfortunately, there have been additional complications. Leon is Anemic, and most recently, he suffered a pulmonary embolism. As a result, he has difficulty walking and basic breathing without pain. The treatments for his infections have resulted in multiple fistulas (tears/gaps) in his colon where food and excrement were passing into his abdomen. He currently has multiple drainage sites to clear any discharge and bodily waste from his torso. All of which is a challenge to keep sanitary and safe from further infection. These further immobilize him and cause continued severe pain. This current health setback has put Leon in the ER or inpatient care for over thirty days, with over a dozen hospitalizations. Even under these extremely challenging circumstances, Leon remains his true self; positive, caring and humble.

Leon is currently scheduled to have an Ileostomy on May 4th. It could be partial but may become a full colostomy, all dependent on the findings of his surgeon during the procedure. They will attempt to preserve as much healthy colon as possible by severing it and then reattaching it to the lining of his stomach. Then his remaining colon (or potentially small intestine) will be brought to the surface of his stomach to allow food and by-products to pass. The hope is that some of his colon will be preserved and that there are no further complications. But in reality, he has a high risk of additional complications, some of which could be a mortal threat. He may only have a colostomy bag for three to six months. However, it is possible that at the age of 44, he will have an ileostomy bag for the rest of his life. We are praying for the best possible outcome, but it's a long road ahead.

There simply aren't enough words to describe how special Leon is. His kindness, generosity and output of love are immeasurable. In the twenty-five years I've known him I have witnessed countless people touched by Leon's selflessness. Aside from his big heart, and sense of humor, it is undoubtedly his positive approach to life that is a constant reminder of how remarkable of a human he is. As the unofficial mayor of Encinitas, Leon is an integral part of our community. Whether it's getting you home safe or to the airport, coaching soccer, giving pool lessons or fixing cars, he is there to help everyone.

As a single dad, Leon's greatest joy and most important job is caring for his thirteen-year-old son, David. He also helps take care of David Sr, his Father who suffers from heart failure and Dementia. He supports his brother and loves his friends. He is a hardworking and dependable employee, and he is greatly missed as a strong leader and confidant.

The goal for this GoFundMe is to allow Leon to survive his accumulated debts from the past months, for which he was unable to work. Pay for his current medical expenses and the daily costs of living which are considerable, as well as the time required for his needed recovery. Leon will not be able to work for at least another month post surgery and he will be going under the knife again in three to six months, depending on his recovery. During this time he must feed his son and himself, keep the lights on, the rent paid, and all the other routine costs associated with life in Southern California and his continued dependence on the medical system. Leon has ALWAYS been there for everyone and never asks for anything in return. Let’s help get him back on his feet and repay all the good he has done for others.

On behalf of myself, the Sabbas family and the man we love so deeply, thank you for your continued support, love and community. This is a bump in the road and we will get over it, together.

With love & gratitude,

Sarah