Anthony and Raul #highfivefantastic Love

Maya Angelou said, "When people show you who they are, believe them." I believe Raul and Anthony are a couple who loves fiercely, a pair who stands for positivity and goodness in the world and a dynamic duo who uses all they have to make the world a better place for everyone.

Shortly after Anthony and I met as educators at a summer theater program in 2017, he invited me to NYC, made me a guest in his home, introduced me to Raul and they welcomed me into their extended family! The invitation to visit has been open ever since! I am sure many of you reading this have had a similar experience with this magnetic couple!

Anthony continued doing workshops for my theater students and musical casts! I was always so impressed with his talent, willingness to share his journey from the streets to the stage and the way Anthony always left my students better than the way he found them. Watching Raul and Anthony over the years, I have witnessed that prioritizing opportunities to give love and energy to others is a hallmark of their relationship.

That is why I felt absolutely compelled to support them in this challenging time. Since 2020 they have quietly experienced a loss of steady/predictable incomes, navigated COVID, Raul lost both parents within three months and they are now battling liver disease and Raul's transplant together.

THEY NEED US! Anthony has chosen to care for Raul alone for two years now. With no compensation other than knowing his love is still alive, he is managing all of Raul's multiple weekly appointments, numerous hospital stays and surgeries, dozens of medications taken twice a day. He fights with pharmacies, advocates fiercely with doctors and care providers for his husband's recovery. He has gone all in on care with a laser focus. He has kept Raul alive under the most fearful of conditions. Raul has suffered physically and mentally from his transplant. He is still here because of Anthony's care and the strength of their connection and the love of the communities who have prayed for them. Both of them cling to their faith and feel the hands and energy of all the friends, family and various communities who have reached out to them during this difficult time.

This couple has brought so much joy to so many, but they will not ask for help for themselves, so I am doing it for them. It is time to return the love to them! I have created this fund (with their blessing and after much convincing) as a way for all of you who have wanted to reach out and care for them, but didn't know how.

The money will be going directly to them to pay for hospital bills, transportation and living costs as well as the high cost of medications! Please help them continue to spread #highfivefantasic LOVE!!

Though our goal is daunting, everything is appreciated and every amount will make a difference! Thank you in advance for your support! May your holidays be joyous and may the new year be full of health and happiness for all!