Support Michael’s Fight Against Rare Cancer at 38

My name is Michael, and I recently moved to Austin from New Orleans to be closer to my family. Just before Christmas, I was looking forward to a fresh start with my loved ones, especially my five-year-old daughter, Daisy, who means the world to me. Unfortunately, my life took an unexpected turn when I was diagnosed with thymoma, a rare form of cancer on the thymus gland, near the left lung. On April 11th, I had trouble breathing and was rushed to the emergency room at St. David's North Austin and spent 12 days in the hospital undergoing tests and receiving my diagnosis. Since then, I have been under the care of a thoracic surgeon, have had additional biopsies, and am preparing to begin chemotherapy and radiation at Texas Oncology.

This diagnosis has completely changed my daily life. The tumor is pressing into my heart, lungs, and esophagus, making it difficult to speak, breathe, and even read bedtime stories to Daisy. I have been unable to work due to the sickness, pain, and extreme fatigue. As someone who has spent over 12 years in the restaurant industry, I deeply miss the relationships and sense of purpose that came from working in kitchens. I was self-employed at the time of my diagnosis and did not have health insurance, which has made the financial burden even heavier. I was able to secure insurance for June, but it does not cover all of my medical expenses. I am currently staying with my parents as they help me recover.

The funds raised will go directly toward my hospital bills from St. David's North, diagnostic imaging, daily living costs, and the upcoming chemo and radiation treatments at Texas Oncology. Your support will help relieve some of the financial stress so I can focus on my health and being there for Daisy. I am incredibly grateful for any help you can provide, whether it’s a donation or simply sharing my story. Thank you for standing with me and my family during this difficult time.