Her Gift

Sandra Tellez (my mother) is a quiet miracle. For over 20 years, she’s been a para-professional at Harlandale High School and Jewel Wetzel, lifting up special needs kids with her gentle strength. Michael couldn’t read—anger took over when anyone tried. Sandra sat with him, patient and kind, until he felt seen. She believed in him when no one else did, and he read his first words. Kids and adults like him still call her today—she’s their hero. Now, she’s mine, and she needs us.

Cancer’s hit her hard—three times. In 2017, she faced chemo and surgery. It came back December 13, 2023—dedifferentiated liposarcoma in her abdomen—with more treatment and surgery on June 4, 2024. We celebrated her strength. But on March 12, 2025, it returned. Soon, we’re off to MD Anderson in Houston, a 3-hour drive from San Antonio, for scans and her next fight.

What She’s Facing

The costs are overwhelming—even with insurance. Sandra earns $18/hour, 40 hours a week, but her sick leave’s gone—she’ll lose $8,640 in wages over 3 months. Each of our 12 trips to MD Anderson takes $250 for gas and a hotel—that’s $4,100 to get her there. Food and parking add $600. (Over 3 months)

Then there’s medical: $2,800 for her deductible, $7,500 for copays and treatments to battle this sarcoma—not even counting surgery. It’s $23,000 we don’t have. But every bit helps her keep going. All of this does not include all the medical debt she has already accumulated in the past which is over 50k

My Promise

I’m her driver, her cheerleader, her rock. I make the 6-hour round trip for every appointment not including traffic, cover hotels, and might miss work too. Sandra’s my hero—she protected me growing up, let me trip, then wrapped me in comfort. I’ve held her hand through 2017 and 2023—now, I’m asking you to hold it with me.

Your Chance to Help

We need $23,000 to keep Sandra fighting, not worrying. Your gift makes a difference:

$25 helps covers a hotel night

$50 fills the tank for a trip

$100 buys a week of meals

Every share keeps her spirits high—and they say that’s half the battle with cancer. Sandra’s a warrior who’s lifted so many—let’s lift her now. Donate or share today—thank you from our hearts!