At 82, Vinny has already overcome leukemia, sepsis, and several major surgeries, and he’s still fighting. Now, he’s facing his toughest battle yet: stage 4 melanoma. His doctors are preparing him for a groundbreaking treatment called TIL therapy, one of the most advanced cancer therapies available today.

If all goes as planned, he’ll become the oldest patient ever to undergo this treatment, proving once again that his strength and willpower have no limits.

My name is Alexis, and I’m organizing this fundraiser for my grandfather, Vinny. He’s a devoted father, grandfather, and the absolute heart of our family.

He’s always been full of energy, a true “nut job” in the best way. He’s been our rock, our laughter, and the person who never misses a moment that matters. From school concerts to graduations and birthdays, he’s always there- the first to arrive, the last to leave, and never one to sit still.

In 2022, my grandpa was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and bravely went through chemotherapy, eventually reaching remission. We thought the hardest part was behind him until February 2025, when he was diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma. This time, the cancer was extremely aggressive.

Since then, he’s been through more than anyone should ever have to endure: nearly a dozen hospitalizations, life-threatening infections, and severe complications from his immunotherapy. Due to his weakened immune system, in August he developed rotavirus that led to septic shock. Doctors told us he might not make it, but somehow, he did.

On September 25th, he underwent a massive 12-hour surgery at Memorial Sloan Kettering to remove large cancerous growths from the side of his face and neck, as well as some lymph nodes. The surgery involved extensive reconstruction and a skin graft from his leg.

After that surgery, he told us he had felt ready to go, but then he thought about his family and asked God for just a little more time with us. That moment says everything about who he is: strong, faithful, and full of love, even in the hardest times.

After everything he has done for his family, it’s our turn to take care of him.

How Funds Will Help

Vinny’s care has required his family to step in as his full-time support system. He now needs radiation, physical therapy, frequent home nurse visits, and travel to Manhattan for TIL therapy treatment and follow-up care at Sloan Kettering.

Your donation will help cover:

Every bit helps relieve the pressure so we can focus on what truly matters: helping him heal and keeping him comfortable and strong for what’s ahead. 

We are so grateful for any support, whether it’s a donation, a prayer, or simply sharing his story. Your kindness means more to our family than we can ever express.

We are so deeply grateful for every donation, prayer, and share. It truly takes a village, and knowing how many people are cheering him on gives him even more strength to keep going.