Our beloved nephew, Marc Russell, is an 18-year-old college student attending the University of Hawaiʻi with dreams of becoming an architect. He is a bright, determined, and hard-working young man who has his whole future ahead of him. But instead of focusing on classes and the future he has dreamed of, Marc is now facing the fight of his life. He was recently diagnosed with an enlarged heart and is in need of a heart transplant. His heart is currently functioning at only 10–20%. A catheter has been placed in his heart to help maintain blood flow while he waits for a donor.

Marc is scheduled to fly from Hawaii to Texas, where he will be immediately admitted to one of the leading hospitals specializing in heart transplants. His journey ahead will be a long and uncertain one, with an estimated hospital stay of six months to a year—or possibly even longer. The length of his stay will depend on how quickly a suitable donor match becomes available, as well as his recovery after the transplant.

Marc’s mom, Ruchelle, will be taking a leave of absence from her full-time job so she can be by Marc’s side and help care for him throughout this journey. His dad, Marcial, will remain in Hawaii to continue working and do everything he can to support his family from home.

As a family, we know that no parent should have to worry about finances while fighting for their child’s life. Along with the emotional and physical challenges they are facing, the family will also be dealing with the financial burden of unexpected medical expenses, travel, lodging, food, and everyday necessities. With the family relying on a single income during this time, these expenses can quickly become overwhelming.

We are humbly asking for your support to help Marc and his parents through this incredibly difficult journey. Any donation, no matter how big or small, will make a meaningful difference. Your generosity will help ease some of the financial burden and allow Marc’s parents to focus on what matters most—being there for their son and supporting him every step of the way.

If you are unable to donate, there are still many ways you can help. Sharing this fundraiser with your family and friends, keeping Marc and his family in your thoughts and prayers, or simply sending words of encouragement and love would mean more to them than you know.

From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for taking the time to read Marc’s story and for any love, prayers, support, or generosity you are able to give. This is a journey no family should have to face alone, and every contribution, share, prayer, and kind word truly makes a difference.

Thank you for standing with Marc and our family during this difficult time. ❤️