Six months ago, my nephew Carmelo—who we all lovingly call Melo—was a happy, energetic little boy with no health concerns. Today, at just three years old, he and his parents are navigating life with Type 1 Diabetes.

Throughout the month of February, Melo became increasingly sick. What started as concerning symptoms turned into every parent’s nightmare. After weeks of worry and doctor visits, he was finally diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes on February 27.

Type 1 Diabetes is a lifelong autoimmune condition that requires constant monitoring and management. For a toddler, that means frequent blood sugar checks, insulin management, and around-the-clock attention to keep him safe and healthy.

Since his diagnosis, the medical costs have quickly added up. Between hospital bills, a continuous glucose monitor, an insulin pump, insulin, and the many other supplies required to manage this condition, the financial burden has become overwhelming.

On top of that, my sister and her husband are doing everything they can to learn how to manage this new reality while caring for their little boy. They would love to take some time off work to focus on stabilizing his condition, learning how to manage his care, and simply being there for him during this difficult transition.

We are creating this GoFundMe to help ease some of that burden. Donations will go toward Melo’s medical expenses, diabetes management supplies, and giving his parents the ability to take time off work to care for him while they adjust to this new chapter.

If you are able to contribute, share, or keep Melo and his family in your thoughts, it would mean the world to them.

Thank you for supporting this brave little boy and his family.