Family Combatting Terminal Brain Cancer

Dear friends and family,

One of my dearest friends, Valentina, recently discovered that her father, Alberto, has an aggressive terminal brain cancer called Glioblastoma (GBM). For several months she has helplessly watched her father’s mental and physical health succumb to the tumor as it not only takes away his physical health but also eats away at the core of his personality. Less than a year ago, he was healthy, 52 years old, passionately working as a soccer coach, and excited to share the world with his wife, adult children, 2-year-old granddaughter and to-be-born grandson.

This cancer has taken everything from Alberto and his family in several short months. Valentina’s babies have been robbed of a future with their grandfather. His wife, Mariana, has been deprived of a lot in which she can grow old with her husband – instead of basking in the life they created together, she now has to hold onto as much as possible. In several short months, Alberto’s elderly mother in Uruguay has had to accept the nightmarish reality that she will more than likely outlive her son… and that his visit in 2020 was probably the last time she will ever get to embrace him again.

As his condition continues to deteriorate, all Valentina’s family can do is watch. Watch as he slowly forgets his grandchildren’s names. Watch as he progressively struggles to find the strength to walk. Watch as he loses himself to cancer. Due to the tumor locations, he increasingly suffers from short-term memory loss, seizures, and worsening communication ability. It is becoming increasingly dangerous for him to be left alone. Yet, now as their only source of income, his wife has no choice but to leave him unattended during her shifts.

Yet, they can still find hope, happy moments, and positive thoughts. He still smiles when he sees his grandkids, Mia and Dylan. His humor and ability to make light of the situation is also not all lost. Weekend cookouts are still a thing. His love for his family is still as strong as ever. Together as a family, they are making the best of every moment.

We are asking for a donation to help Valentina’s family as they care for her father. With Alberto unable to work, his wife’s income is simply not enough to cover medical bills and living expenses. In addition, due to his short-term memory loss, it is becoming increasingly difficult & dangerous for him to be left unattended while her mother works. Your contribution would greatly help to reduce the financial burden Valentina’s family is faced with – we appreciate any support you can give to help them through these trying times!

Thank You!!!