Around the end of last summer, Renan began experiencing symptoms such as bloody stool, rectal pain, and rapid weight loss. By January 2025, he received the devastating diagnosis of stage IV colorectal cancer.

Since then, he has undergone short-course radiation followed by intensive chemotherapy. For many, this news came as a complete shock - because if you know our Renan, you know he has continued to be his vibrant, theatrical, and loving self. Despite exhaustion, discomfort, and pain, he remains the same lively friend who shows up for everyone - always ready to listen, make you laugh, or surprise you with a thoughtful gift or idea. That’s just who Renan is.

Unfortunately, the most recent CT scan (as of October 10th) revealed that the cancer has now spread to his lungs in addition to his liver. His oncology team has confirmed that the cancer is aggressive and, at this stage, surgery is not an option, as it has not yet stabilized enough to make surgical intervention effective.

Renan’s most recent meeting with his care team was a difficult one - described as a “get your affairs in order” conversation. The current goal is to prolong life through a new chemotherapy regimen, with the hope that his body responds well enough to regain some stability and reopen the door to more treatment options.

Alongside this heavy news comes tremendous uncertainty about the future - financially, emotionally, and physically - including the possibility of being off work long-term or indefinitely. His oncologist has even encouraged him to begin working through his bucket list, a heartbreaking reminder of the seriousness of his situation.

This is where this GoFundMe comes in.

Renan and his family are now seeking second opinions from out-of-province and out-of-country cancer specialists, with the ultimate goal of finding more viable options to extend his life. There are renowned cancer clinics offering innovative and emerging treatments that may help address complex cancers like his. Unfortunately, these are not covered by MSP, meaning all associated costs - consultations, travel, lodging, and potential treatments - will need to be paid out of pocket.

Let’s come together to help lift some of the financial weight off Renan and his family’s shoulders, so they can continue exploring every possible option that our local healthcare system cannot currently provide. Any contribution, big or small, will go directly toward giving Renan the time, hope, and opportunity he deserves.