For the past five years, our dear friend Cat Montes has been the primary caregiver for her uncle, Sixto Pagaran Jr., as he battles an incurable autoimmune condition. Over time, his health has severely declined. Every treatment meant to help has either failed or made his condition worse, leaving him unable to eat, walk, or care for himself.

Cat, her partner Roe, her dad, and a circle of close friends have worked tirelessly to care for him around the clock—bathing, feeding, managing medications, and simply being there every step of the way. It hasn’t been easy, especially for someone like her uncle, who spent most of his life on his feet, working, moving, and traveling the world.

Through the years, he lived a full and colorful life—calling places like Hawaii, New York, and South Lake Tahoe his home. He worked as a barback, bartender, general manager, card dealer, and even took on one of the toughest jobs out there: a Dutch Harbor fisherman in Alaska. He was strong, independent, and always moving—so you can imagine how difficult this stage of life has been for him.

While navigating his declining health, Cat has continued her community work—supporting those in need both in the San Francisco Bay Area and the Philippines. Even when stretched thin emotionally, physically, and financially, she gives without hesitation.

She’s covered medical costs, second opinions, medications, caregiving expenses, and now, with hospice care beginning, she’s preparing for cremation and final arrangements—all out of pocket.

Now it’s our turn to support her.

We’re raising $10,000++ to help cover:

* The medical and care costs she’s already paid

* Hospice and end-of-life expenses

* Cremation and memorial arrangements

* Any additional needs as her uncle transitions peacefully

If you’ve ever been helped, fed, supported, or inspired by Cat, you know how deeply she cares for others. Let’s show up for her now like she’s always shown up for so many of us.

Every donation—big or small—helps. And if you’re unable to give, please consider sharing this with others.

Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for supporting this incredibly strong and selfless woman in one of the hardest times of her life.

With love and gratitude,

Danuel Canes & Nicole Van Ness