We never imagined we would be here. My parents recently made a big move to Florida, believing they were stepping into a new chapter filled with years of happiness, stability, and time together as a family. Instead, they are now facing the unimaginable. At just 35 years old, my brother, CJ, fought an incredibly hard battle in the ICU. Despite every effort from the medical team, his body could no longer recover from multiple organ failure. Today, at 5 PM, our family will be making the heartbreaking decision to remove him from life support.

CJ has been a fighter his entire life. He started karate when he was just 4 years old and went on to earn his black belt at a young age — something that spoke to his discipline, strength, and determination. When he was 15, CJ faced one of the toughest battles of his life: Brain cancer. And just like everything else, he fought — and he overcame it. That fighting spirit never left him. But more than anything, CJ was a man of deep faith. He loved Jesus with his whole heart, and that faith carried him through every trial he faced. He believed in God’s plan, even when life was hard, and he lived with a quiet strength that came from that relationship.

That’s why we truly believed he would fight through this too. Last night, we were blessed with a moment we will hold onto forever. We believe CJ found the strength to connect with us one last time — to let us know he was still there, and to say goodbye. It is something we will carry in our hearts for the rest of our lives. There are no words to describe this kind of loss. CJ was deeply loved — a son, a brother, an uncle and someone who meant so much to everyone who knew him. He had a kind heart, quiet strength, and a presence that made people feel loved and cared for. One of the ways he showed that love was through cooking. He loved being in the kitchen, preparing meals, and feeding his family. Gathering to eat something CJ made wasn’t just about food — it was about love, comfort, and bringing everyone together. His absence will leave a space that can never be filled.

On top of this devastating loss, my parents are now facing significant financial strain. They had just taken on the expense of relocating 1,800 miles expecting many more years ahead. Now they are burdened with unexpected funeral costs, and the sudden loss of CJ’s financial contribution. We are asking for help to give CJ the dignity he deserves and to support my parents during this incredibly painful time. Any contribution — no matter how small — will go directly toward funeral arrangements and easing the financial weight my parents are carrying. If you’re unable to give, please consider sharing this page and keeping our family in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you for your kindness, your support, and for helping us honor CJ’s life. With love and gratitude, The Barajas/Atencio Family