Support Luisa's Fight Against Stomach Cancer,

Hi Everyone: Luisa’s team is writing to encourage financial and emotional support for her. Luisa has stage four metastatic cancer. She was diagnosed with stomach cancer in March of 2023. Four months later, Luisa underwent surgery to remove the infected cells. Unfortunately, the cancer had spread throughout her abdomen, and her entire stomach had to be removed. Now she relies on her small intestines to act as her primary digestive source, which makes absorbing nutrients a challenge. Even while adapting to her new life, Luisa has remained positive. She doesn’t complain. She doesn’t want cancer to define her. Our dear friend still embraces spending time with loved ones. She still dances. She still sings. She still laughs. She pushes on because, really, what is the alternative?

Unfortunately, even though Luisa does all she can to be active, her ability to work has become increasingly limited. And she needs our help. Luisa made her living as a stone mason. Women stonemasons are a rarity, and Luisa did it with pride and precision. However, as her condition advances, this type of grueling physical labor is impossible. Even as her illness becomes more difficult to combat, Luisa still helps out at her brother’s restaurant to supplement her income. And she also does it because being around family, and feeling useful, is a powerful medicine.

Luisa has difficulty asking for help because she has always been the person giving help. The phrase “Generous to a Fault” applies to Luisa on the deepest level. On more than one occasion, this generous woman sacrificed her own well being to assist others in need. One time her electricity was turned off because a friend’s child faced a serious health diagnosis and needed financial support. Luisa stepped into action. She chose to be in the dark (literally) in order to help a child in crisis. There are countless stories of Luisa aiding people at her own peril. Some might think it is foolish. Nonetheless, it is a rare quality to put others before yourself, and Luisa possesses that remarkable attribute.

Luisa received devastating news last week that the cancer has metastasized to her liver and potentially to other organs, as well. She is waiting for her medical team to devise the best course of action. Needless to say, things are going to get progressively challenging. Her pain is increasing. And while Luisa does her best to remain positive, she is on a physical and emotional seesaw.

Please consider donating to Luisa’s financial fund to help with her living expenses. Ironically, Luisa’s generous actions of attending to the financial predicaments of others has dispensed a reality where Luisa now needs assistance. Luisa is so overwhelmed by those who have already donated. She appreciates everyone’s well wishes and care, too. Every little bit helps, and any donation is a blessing.