Together, let’s bring Joel home safe from Portugal.

As many of you know, our dear friend Joel Ballesteros has been bravely fighting Cancer. Until recently, Joel was still actively working in the New Hampshire area with his husband Robert by his side, managing his care. His employer has been incredibly supportive, giving him the flexibility he needed for chemotherapy and treatments.

One of Joel’s biggest wishes was to take a dream cruise through Europe this past September. In preparation for this trip, he was cleared by his doctors who suggested he skip chemo to enjoy his trip.

Unfortunately, just two days into the cruise, he developed a serious fever and infection. The ship’s medical team suggested he be escorted by ambulance to an emergency center in Lisbon, Portugal.

When they arrived, Robert said “no exaggeration, there were 300 people waiting to see a doctor”. Joel slept on a chair for 2 days waiting. He then was transferred to another hospital in Lisbon where they could handle a procedure he needed to clear the infections in his drains. He has not been well enough to travel home.

Joel has been in the hospital for 17 days in Lisbon. While we are hopeful, he will be strong enough to travel home soon, another challenge (nightmare) has arisen. Even though Joel thankfully has medical travel insurance coverage, it may not be enough to cover all of his medical expenses or allow him to be discharged from the Hospital.

On top of the emotional stress, imagine being in a foreign country, with your spouse staying in a hotel for nearly 3 weeks, with no support system or resources – relying only on phone calls, texts and prayers of close family and friends. It has been an incredibly difficult journey for them both.

Joel and Robert have touched so many of our lives and brought people together in countless meaningful ways. Now it’s our turn to give back – ANY contribution, big or small, will help bring home Joel safely.

Most importantly, please keep Joel and Robert in your thoughts and prayers. We didn’t ask for permission to do this “Go Fund Me” page, we know Joel and Robert are too humble to ask. Your love, support, and kindness are what will help carry them through this difficult time.

Thank you sincerely,

Jeanne & Majken