Dear friends, family, and kind strangers,

Raul Sanchez, the vibrant smile behind the counter of his beloved café and record store Cafe Suspiro, as well as friend who always has a warm word, and pillar of San Francisco's music scene recently, Raul suffered a series of mini-strokes called transient ischemic attack (TIA). In addition, on April 18, Raul suffered from a hypertensive attack that lead to a trip to the ER in an ambulance.

While he is safe, back at home, and resting (under the amazing care of his life partner Heather), these episodes serve as a stark warning sign of potential future complications if not managed carefully. Raul has embarked on a journey of rigorous treatment, drastic lifestyle changes, and the elimination of stressors fin order to prioritize his health. This means temporarily stepping back from the cafe, his passion and the lifeblood of his staff.

Adding to the pressure, Raul has battled anxiety for years, which is now exacerbated by the mounting medical bills: MRIs, EKGs, ambulance rides, therapy, and medication exceeding $1,000 per month even with insurance. As this stress accrues, he puts himself at much deeper risk of more serious episodes if not controlled, especially during these next few critical months while he gets back on track.

Despite his own struggles, Raul remains fiercely committed to Cafe Suspiro and his community. He strives to keep the business afloat while ensuring his employees are cared for.

This is where we come in.

Your donation, no matter the size, will provide Raul with the financial breathing room he needs to focus on healing without the crushing weight of worry. It will allow him to hire additional support and ensure the continued existence of Cafe Suspiro, the space where music, coffee, and community spirit thrive.

Let's rally together to support Raul, the embodiment of resilience, compassion, and the spirit that makes San Francisco special. Together, we can ensure his infectious smile continues to brighten our days for years to come.

Please donate generously. Every contribution makes a tangible difference.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.