Our dear friend Gabriel has been diagnosed with cancer. He and his long-time partner, Aja, learned this after a frightening health crisis last fall, when Gabriel was struggling to breathe. Over Thanksgiving, he went to the ER and was diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism. Further testing revealed lung cancer, primarily evident in his lymph nodes. It is currently classified as early Stage IV.

The hopeful news is that Gabriel has been prescribed a targeted treatment - an oral medication - and it has already had a profoundly positive effect.

We are asking for support to help ease the financial burden of Gabriel’s illness and recovery. Funds raised will help cover medical co-pays and bills, ongoing treatment costs, and supportive care - along with everyday needs that become harder during long-term illness, such as grocery delivery, rent support, dog walking, and time and space for rest and healing.

Please consider sharing this fundraiser widely. Many people from many chapters of life have crossed paths with Gabriel and Aja, and we know there are so many who will want to help. If you don’t know Gabriel personally, he is an artist and musician, a writer and teacher, an activist and community organizer - and above all, a deeply kind and generous person. Aja, his partner, is all of these things and more. Together, they have poured their energy into caring for others and building community for more than 30 years.

Thank you for being part of the community that holds them now! All donations are tax-deductible via the Temple of the Waters, reach out to us if you need a receipt for donations over $250.

“Living in Minneapolis, I’m intensely aware of how much need there is - in the world and right outside my front door. I wouldn’t be asking for your help right now if I didn’t know it would truly make a difference in my fight. However you’re able to help, I’m so grateful.” - Gabriel