Support Roberto's Battle Against Esophageal Cancer

Hello! My name is Carley, and I created this page on behalf of my father, Roberto Martinez. He is currently facing a daunting battle against Stage 2/3 Esophageal Cancer.

Roberto has always been a pillar of strength and generosity. He never asks for handouts; instead, he always offers help to others. He's incredibly humble and rarely asks for help, so I felt compelled to create this GoFundMe to provide some extra cushion during this tough time.

Cancer Details:

Diagnosed in March 2024, my dad has been enduring a rigorous treatment that includes daily radiation and weekly chemotherapy. In June, pending a PET scan that will confirm if the tumor has shrunk sufficiently, my dad is scheduled to undergo intensive, exploratory surgery. This 6+ hour procedure aims to remove the affected area of his esophagus, where the tumor, spanning the entire width and penetrating the muscle mass, meets his stomach. This surgery is crucial as it represents a major step towards recovery and a cancer-free life.

Roberto's Spirit:

My dad's courage and resilience shine through every day. Despite the pain and discomfort from his treatments, Roberto has been powering through and continues to attend work daily after his medical appointments. Even with the drawbacks of treatment so far, he has never missed my sister's (Addison's) Senior Softball Games, rain or shine!

The Ask:

The recovery from his upcoming surgery will be intense, and he will need to take weeks (potentially months) off to heal. During this time, he'll be on FMLA, receiving reduced pay. His employer has been incredibly supportive, but the financial implications of extended time off are significant.

We are setting up this GoFundMe to help cover the mounting medical bills, ensure the best care for my dad, and support our family during this challenging time. I hope to create this page to give him peace of mind, knowing he has a supportive community behind him to help shoulder the burden of daily and medical expenses.

We ask for your support in any form, be it a donation, a share of this page, or a kind word sent our way. Even the smallest contribution goes a long way, and I know my dad would be beyond grateful for any support from family and friends during this time. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for standing with us and helping my father fight this battle. With your help, we hope to see him recover fully and embrace life once again.

How the Funds Will Be Used:

- Medical expenses, including upcoming surgery

- Ongoing treatments and medications

- Supporting the family’s basic needs during this time

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With immense gratitude,

Roberto's Kids (Carley, Christian, and Addison)

And lastly, for everyone struggling with these awful diseases ... F*CK CANCER!