Marine Veteran SSgt. Mercado Cancer Treatments Funds

Dear Family and Friends,

I hope this message finds you well. I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for your unwavering support and kind words during this challenging chapter of my life. Your encouragement means the world to me and my family.

As many of you know, I am a proud 10-year Marine veteran and a devoted father. In June of 2022, my world was turned upside down when I was diagnosed with stage 4 colon and liver cancer. After undergoing genetic testing, it was revealed that my condition stemmed from environmental exposures during my service. I had the honor of serving three tours in Iraq, and on my last two deployments, I was part of Personnel Retrieval and Processing—dedicated to bringing our fallen heroes home, ensuring that no one was ever left behind.

Since my diagnosis, I’ve faced numerous challenges, including two significant surgeries: one to remove part of my colon due to bleeding and another to address the spreading cancer in my liver. My journey has been filled with countless hospital visits, as chemotherapy has brought a host of complications, making my path to recovery more difficult. Recent scans have shown a new mass in my liver, which has understandably raised concerns for my doctors and me.

As of November 30th of last year, I made the decision to medically retire from my job, allowing me to focus fully on my treatment and healing. While this has brought financial strain to my family, I remain hopeful. Currently, The oncologist recommends another PET scan because the tumor has grown since last year. A biopsy is difficult due to the tumor's location. The oncologist is trying to convince the surgeon to remove the tumor to avoid the hardship and complications I suffered with chemotherapy.

Your support through this fundraising effort has provided me with invaluable assistance, helping to cover bills, medical expenses, transportation, and other essentials during this journey. If you find it in your heart to continue supporting me in any way, it would mean so much—though please know that your prayers and kind words are truly what I cherish most. Sharing my story and keeping me in your thoughts gives me the strength I need to fight this battle for myself and my loved ones.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your continued support and prayers.

With love and gratitude,

Jesus A. Mercado