Dear Friends, Family, and Community -

I’m starting this GoFundMe on behalf of my brother, Richard LaRosa. Many of you know him as someone who has always lived with humor, curiosity, and resilience. Right now, he’s facing the most intense challenge of his life: a recent diagnosis of aggressive prostate cancer.

In May of 2025, Richard began experiencing serious urinary problems that led to a trip to the ER, long-term catheterizations, multiple doctor visits and tests, and eventually surgery. What doctors first thought was a 5.6 cm abscess turned out to be something far more serious. On September 3, he underwent a TURP surgery, and the biopsy confirmed prostate cancer, graded at Gleason 9. While the severity of the cancer has not yet been fully determined, based on his daily pain level, we suspect it may already involve surrounding structures. Richard is now preparing for further imaging in the coming weeks to determine his prognosis and the next steps of treatment.

Despite all that Richard has gone through, he’s staying positive and finding ways to keep his sense of humor intact. I fought my own battle with an aggressive form of high recurrence rate cancer almost three years ago, so I fully understand what is in store for Richard with surgeries and debilitating treatments. Unfortunately, the reality is that the road ahead will involve significant physical and financial challenges and an inability to earn an income to support himself, and that’s where I’m asking for your help.

Your donations will go directly toward:

• Covering medical costs not fully paid by insurance

• Supporting Richard during recovery and treatment

• Helping with living expenses while he focuses on healing

If you know Richard, he’s a generous spirit, a devoted father to his daughter, and the kind of person who gives his all to others. I’m hoping those that care about him and the fight against cancer will rally in support to assist him in navigating this extremely challenging time. Any amount, no matter how big or small, that you can give will help ease his burden and let him focus on what matters most: fighting this cancer and regaining his health.

Even if you aren’t able to contribute financially, please consider sharing this page with your friends and community. Messages of encouragement mean just as much, and Richard deeply appreciates the love and support he’s already received. If you would prefer to donate off of this platform or if you can assist in other ways, please contact me.

Thank you for standing with my brother and my family in this fight against cancer. Together, we can help Richard face this challenge with the strength, dignity, and humor that he’s carried throughout his life.

With much gratitude,

Monica LaRosa