Update from Matthew Burgos 2/27/26 9:21 AM ET

Matthew Burgos Road to Recovery

My name is Matthew Burgos. I’m 37 years old from Rowland Heights, California. Just weeks ago, I was a working chef building a local burger business. Today, I’m fighting Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), a fast-moving blood cancer that can be fatal without treatment. One night at work, I collapsed and lost consciousness for 30 minutes on a restaurant bathroom floor. I woke up dazed/confused and went home, thinking I was just exhausted. The next day, my hand was badly swollen from the fall. The swelling saved my life because I ended up in the emergency room. Doctors discovered I only had 7 platelets left, meaning I was at a high risk of bleeding to death internally. That’s when I was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

I was first sent to Queen of the Valley Hospital, where I was told I had AML but they said they couldn’t treat me and transferred me out. I was then sent to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, where I spent 13 days without chemotherapy while my immune system was nearly gone and an infection spread through my hand. I begged for antibiotics for days before receiving them. My cancer continued to grow, and I realized staying there would likely kill me, so I left. I was later admitted to UCLA Medical Center, where doctors finally ran full genetic testing, identified the exact mutations causing my leukemia, and started oral chemotherapy. It worked and my cancer levels dropped. Then, without warning, I was transferred out due to insurance issues and sent elsewhere without proper coordination.

I am currently home, medically fragile, managing high risk of bleeding while waiting for transfer. The good news is that City of Hope is ready to accept me. They have reviewed my case and have the exact treatment I need. My care team includes Guido Marcucci, who pioneered the treatment protocol for my mutation, and Otoukesh, who has personally been helping me while I wait. This is where I have my best chance to live.

Right now, I am unable to work while undergoing treatment and recovery. Any support given helps me stay housed, fed, strong, and focused on fighting this disease. This is not about luxury. It is about survival. Every donation, every share, and every prayer helps me keep going while I fight for my life. I truly believe I will beat this if I can get to City of Hope and stay supported through treatment. Thank you for reading. Thank you for caring. Thank you for helping me fight.