DO IT 4 DEZ
Donation protected
"Some people want it to happen some wish it would happen, others make it happen." ~ Michael Jordan
Anyone that knows the Valdez family, immediately feels their love and support. They are everyone's best friend, biggest supporters of Chatfield Senior High, and overall amazing people. This wonderful family needs our support to help pay for the mounting medical bills that are piling up from their son Derek’s most recent battle with cancer.
Derek is the strongest person we know and has beaten leukemia three previous times, as well as, recovered from a bone marrow transplant. Unfortunately, in June 2020, Derek noticed a small lump on his arm, went in for a biopsy only to discover it was a solid mass tumor that was cancerous. Derek had to resume several rounds of chemotherapy and had surgery to remove the tumor/surrounding tissue and received a donor forearm bone. Derek's biggest concern was when he would be able to shoot free throws again ;-)
This round of Derek's journey has been grueling on ALL levels. He has had multiple rounds of chemotherapy, resulting in having to spend weeks at a time in the hospital. He recently spiked a fever of 107, was once again admitted into the hospital only to be facing a fungal infection in his lung. On March 2nd, Derek went back into surgery to remove the fungal infection, where they were able to remove the lobe that was infected. In true Derek fashion, he commented "well at least I have 5 other lobes".
Last week, they got some news that they were not expecting. The fungal infection that was removed with his lung surgery spread to some of his muscle tissues, which can't be removed with surgery. This is a very serious infection. The doctors are experimenting in the lab with the biopsy they took from Derek's leg last week to determine what meds will work best.
Derek and Paul were finally sprung from "the hole" on Tuesday, March 16th, after spending 28 days in the hospital, 8 of which were in the ICU. Due to Covid-19 and Derek's weakened immune system, visitors were limited and the family was unable to all be together. Paul or Janine were by his side through this long ordeal leaving them to face harsh financial obstacles. We can only imagine how lonely it was for everyone.
At the moment, Derek is thrilled to be back home with both of his parents, his sister, Makaila and his beloved dogs. There is nothing quite like being in the comfort of your own home.
Derek's fight is far from over...but Derek will continue to beat the odds. He always does!
If you're willing to support Derek and his family, every dollar matters and will be put to good use to pay for his care.
Whether your donation is for $10, $50, $100, $1,000 or more, it is much needed and will mean more that you will know.
If you cannot donate at this time, please keep your prayers coming. On behalf of Derek, his family, and many cherished friends, please accept our deepest gratitude for your kindness, compassion and generosity!
Anyone that knows the Valdez family, immediately feels their love and support. They are everyone's best friend, biggest supporters of Chatfield Senior High, and overall amazing people. This wonderful family needs our support to help pay for the mounting medical bills that are piling up from their son Derek’s most recent battle with cancer.
Derek is the strongest person we know and has beaten leukemia three previous times, as well as, recovered from a bone marrow transplant. Unfortunately, in June 2020, Derek noticed a small lump on his arm, went in for a biopsy only to discover it was a solid mass tumor that was cancerous. Derek had to resume several rounds of chemotherapy and had surgery to remove the tumor/surrounding tissue and received a donor forearm bone. Derek's biggest concern was when he would be able to shoot free throws again ;-)
This round of Derek's journey has been grueling on ALL levels. He has had multiple rounds of chemotherapy, resulting in having to spend weeks at a time in the hospital. He recently spiked a fever of 107, was once again admitted into the hospital only to be facing a fungal infection in his lung. On March 2nd, Derek went back into surgery to remove the fungal infection, where they were able to remove the lobe that was infected. In true Derek fashion, he commented "well at least I have 5 other lobes".
Last week, they got some news that they were not expecting. The fungal infection that was removed with his lung surgery spread to some of his muscle tissues, which can't be removed with surgery. This is a very serious infection. The doctors are experimenting in the lab with the biopsy they took from Derek's leg last week to determine what meds will work best.
Derek and Paul were finally sprung from "the hole" on Tuesday, March 16th, after spending 28 days in the hospital, 8 of which were in the ICU. Due to Covid-19 and Derek's weakened immune system, visitors were limited and the family was unable to all be together. Paul or Janine were by his side through this long ordeal leaving them to face harsh financial obstacles. We can only imagine how lonely it was for everyone.
At the moment, Derek is thrilled to be back home with both of his parents, his sister, Makaila and his beloved dogs. There is nothing quite like being in the comfort of your own home.
Derek's fight is far from over...but Derek will continue to beat the odds. He always does!
If you're willing to support Derek and his family, every dollar matters and will be put to good use to pay for his care.
Whether your donation is for $10, $50, $100, $1,000 or more, it is much needed and will mean more that you will know.
If you cannot donate at this time, please keep your prayers coming. On behalf of Derek, his family, and many cherished friends, please accept our deepest gratitude for your kindness, compassion and generosity!
Organizer and beneficiary
Stacy Keene
Organizer
Littleton, CO
Janine Valdez
Beneficiary
