Help Diego and His Family During This Critical Time

I write with deep pain and hope to ask for support for my sister at heart, Maristella—a strong woman, activist, wife, and mother.

What is happening?

Her baby boy, Diego, is currently fighting for his life after contracting bacterial meningitis, a serious illness that is preventable through vaccination.

Due to difficulties accessing medical appointments in Minnesota, Diego’s vaccinations were repeatedly postponed—from December to February, and then to April. Tragically, by the time the vaccine could be administered, it was already too late.

Today, Diego remains hospitalized, connected to tubes, suffering from high fevers and seizure episodes. His medical prognosis is uncertain, but his parents have not left his side for a single moment, holding on to faith and hope.

Why do they need help?

Out of fear of leaving their son during such a critical moment, both parents have had to stop working temporarily, placing the family under severe financial strain. In addition to Diego, they have two other daughters who depend on them for care, food, and stability.

How will the funds be used?

Donations will help cover:

Food and basic needs for their two daughters

Medications and medical treatments

Hospital- and transportation-related expenses

Essential household costs during this emergency

A call to the community

There is no pain greater than watching your child suffer. Today, we ask the community to stand with a working family, a mother, and a father, members of the SEIU-USWW family, so they do not have to choose between being at their child’s bedside or going to work with the fear that they may not return in time to see him again.

Any donation, no matter how small, and any act of solidarity will make a meaningful difference.

Thank you for supporting Diego and his family during this incredibly difficult time.