Dear compassionate souls,

My name is Desmond J A Etienne, hailing from the serene shores of Saint Lucia, a cherished gem in the Caribbean. For over 15 years, I've dedicated myself to the craft of media professional, serving as a videographer, motion graphic, and graphic designer. Many of you may recognize me as the quiet yet ever-ready helper, always offering a kind word to friends and family alike.

With a heavy heart, I reach out to you today for assistance. In 2023, I received the devastating news of being diagnosed with an aggressive form of Prostate Cancer, which has since metastasized to my bones, now at stage 4. The impact has left me unable to walk, grappling with Spinal Cord Compression severing the connection to my legs. This reality, confining me to bed, is a stark contrast to my once vibrant life. Yet, amidst the tears and humility, I remain determined to fight.

I humbly ask for your support through this GoFundMe initiative to alleviate the financial burden of daily expenses: medication, regular medical visits, and essential home care. Furthermore, I seek assistance to pursue vital treatment options, including surgery for my spine, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and unforeseen necessities, possibly here in Saint Lucia, Martinique or in the United States of America.

The initial and most vital stride toward my recovery revolves around restoring the mobility in my legs. This journey entails undergoing a surgical procedure known as "Lumbar Spinal Cord Compression Surgery." The aim of this surgery is to alleviate persistent pain and numbness in my legs, which stem from pressure on the nerves in my spine. This procedure is crucial in addressing my metastatic spinal cord compression, a condition where cancer from one part of my body, such as the prostate, spreads to the spine, exerting pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. My sincere hope is that following this operation, I will experience a notable improvement in both pain relief and my ability to walk.

In the next phase of my treatment, we'll focus on addressing Prostate Cancer itself through various approaches.

Chemotherapy: Medications administered intravenously or orally to target fast-growing cells, including cancer cells. This ongoing process may incur additional costs, typically around $1000.00 per session.

Targeted Drug Therapy: Drugs designed to target specific abnormalities in cancer cells, potentially leading to their demise. This option may be recommended if hormone therapy isn't effective.

Radiation Therapy: Utilizing high-energy beams like X-rays or protons to target Prostate Cancer cells. This treatment is typically scheduled five days a week for several weeks. It can be used to treat localized cancer or to manage symptoms if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. This treatment isn't available in Saint Lucia, so it would have to be done overseas.

Surgery: Removal of the prostate gland, surrounding tissue, and nearby lymph nodes. Surgery is considered for cancer confined to the prostate or sometimes in combination with other treatments for advanced cases. This also would have to be done overseas.

Each of these options aims to address Prostate Cancer with care and consideration for my well being.

My fundraising goal of US$150,000.00 aims to facilitate this crucial journey towards healing and recovery. Your generosity, no matter the size, carries immense significance on this path I tread.

From the depths of my heart, I extend my sincerest gratitude to each of you who chooses to embark on this journey with me, offering assistance in any form.

With profound appreciation,

Desmond ❤️