Help My Dad Fight Stage IV Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

Dear Friends & Family,

I’m writing with a heavy heart but also with hope. My father, Marco Tulio Ponce, has been diagnosed with Stage IV Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), an aggressive form of cancer that has already spread. While the news has been devastating, we’re grateful that his doctors have recommended a cutting-edge treatment plan that offers the best chance to fight this disease with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy.

The Challenge

After thorough testing, including a bone marrow biopsy confirming 20% cancer cell infiltration, specialists determined that a combination of targeted inhibitors and biological therapy is the most effective option. This modern approach is less invasive and far gentler on his body, but it comes at a steep cost- triple that of conventional treatments.

The treatment plan involves:

- 8 cycles (administered every 28 days), with the first cycle being the most intensive.

- 2 additional years of maintenance therapy to ensure the best outcome.

We’ve sought second opinions, and every doctor agrees: this is the gold-standard treatment for his condition. My dad’s oncologist is a leading specialist in this field, and we’re confident in his care—but the financial burden is overwhelming.

Why We Need Your Help

Like so many families, we never expected to face this battle. The cost of his treatment, medications, and ongoing care is far beyond what we can manage alone. We’re turning to you—our community—for support to give my dad the fighting chance he deserves.

Every donation, no matter the size, will go directly toward:

- Life-saving medications and therapy cycles

- Medical tests, scans, and specialist visits

- Supportive care to manage side effects

A Father Worth Fighting For

My dad is generous, hard-working, and loves his family. He has a big heart, and has set an example for my family by being compassionate with others who are going through hard times. Throughout his life, he has been generous with others, helping them financially and emotionally and spiritually with whatever he has had to give. Now, it’s our turn to stand with him.

We’re deeply grateful for your prayers, shares, and contributions. If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this campaign with others. Together, we can ease this burden and focus on what matters most: helping my dad heal.

Thank you for your kindness and support during this difficult time.

With love and hope,

Tulio Ponce

If you prefer to contribute via Venmo, my account is @Marco-Ponce-14