Cancer is a word we would not wish to endure. In June 2024, my nephew, Manuel’s life changed in an instant. Manuel had a tumor removed from his leg. Test results came back positive as Merkel Cell carcinoma. Unfortunately, this cancer is very aggressive and not very common. Initial, he was diagnosed as stage 2b. Pathology reports came in and were not favorable. Cancer has spread to his lymph nodes and other areas. Surgery will be scheduled soon to remove the affected tissue. Right now, he is at stage IIIB. Meaning it has spread beyond the tumor and into the lymph nodes.

Manuel is receiving treatment in Visalia but will have his future treatments in Fresno. Depending on his response to immunotherapy treatment he may need to be referred to another facility.

Manuel so has been able to pay for his own transportation to appointments, medication, and additional costs. He has quickly depleted his savings and medical funds. Manuel will soon also need to find housing as his current home will be unavailable. On top of his current diagnosis, he suffers from serious issues with his spine. He has degenerative disc disease, multiple disc herniations, and lower lumbar fractures. This with the cancer has caused so much pain that he has required hospitalization for intractable pain.

We seek help raising funding for Manuel’s medical care, transportation, and other costs that may arise.

He has fought to keep a smile while we know that he is suffering horribly. He misses his boys. Hopes to see them soon once he is better.

Please help. Any donation amount is appreciated. Even the price of a coffee at Starbucks, would help our cause.

Thank you,

Guadalupe Marquez