My son's girlfriend, Fernanda, is battling cancer for the third time. She was first diagnosed with Leukemia at age 13 and spent the next couple years receiving treatment in and out of the hospital. She won that battle and was given a clean bill of health. Then only months later, the cancer returned. This time in her spinal fluid and on her optical nerve, causing intermittent blindness. Once again she began radiation, chemotherapy, and then she stayed in the hospital for a couple months receiving CAR-T therapy. Again she was told that the cancer was undetectable. A few months later, the doctors found something again. The cancer was back. In June, she found herself back in the hospital preparing for a bone marrow transplant. The preparation process is lengthy and extreme, including high doses of radiation and chemotherapy, leaving the body with no immune system. Fernanda also had to accept the fact that this process would most likely leave her infertile. While most teenagers were gearing up for their summer this year, Fernanda was mentally preparing for the suffering ahead as well as trying to figure out how to preserve her eggs.

After a couple months in the hospital, Fernanda has finally gone home to convalesce. Her battle continues and the months ahead will be hard as she rebuilds her immune system.

This beautiful, kindhearted 16-year-old warrior has been through more than most experience over a lifetime. Her mother, Jetzebel, is a hardworking, single mom, managing all of this completely on her own. Due to Fernanda's health needs, she has barely been able to work which only adds another layer of stress to an already unbelievably stressful situation. I cannot wrap words around how difficult/painful this has been for both Fernanda and Yetzebel. They are both exhausted.

After the last extended stay in the hospital and all the looming doctor appointments, accompanied with very little income, the bills are piling up. Though they are reluctant to ask for it, they need our help. I have set up this GoFundMe page to offer our support to Fernanda and Yetzebel during this incredibly tough time. The funds raised will go directly toward helping Yetzebel cover medical expenses, and other necessities as she focuses on Fernanda’s health and recovery.

Every contribution, no matter how small, will make a world of difference. Your generosity will not only ease the financial pressure but also provide them with the strength and comfort needed to get through each day.

I am deeply grateful for any support you can offer, whether it's through a donation or by sharing this fundraiser with your network. Your kindness and generosity are invaluable.

Thank you for standing with Fernanda and Jetzebel during this challenging journey. Your support means more than words can express.