Give Roger a New Heart and Bring Remy Home

Hi, my name is Sarah Cirigliano, and I’m reaching out on behalf of my brother, Roger Mahiques, who is fighting for his life. Roger is an artist with a passion for creating 3D renders and bringing his drawings to life through 3D printing and fabrication. He has always loved adventure and movement, spending years commuting by bike and skateboarding around Pittsburgh’s South Side. Unfortunately, due to chronic heart failure and cardiomyopathy, those days are behind him. His condition has taken away much of his strength, and now his life depends on a heart transplant.

Over the past two years, Roger has faced significant health challenges. Five days after his 40th birthday, a blood clot marked the start of his health struggles, leading to multiple hospitalizations, a defibrillator implant, countless medications, and terrifying moments when he has passed out in public. Despite his determination, excellent medical care, and major lifestyle changes—including quitting smoking and alcohol—his condition has continued to deteriorate. Doctors have now determined that a heart transplant is his best chance at survival.

On November 20, Roger was unexpectedly admitted to the hospital after an echocardiogram revealed his ejection fraction was only 17%—just a quarter of normal heart function. He chose to discharge himself from the hospital in order to spend a few days with family for Thanksgiving and will be admitting himself back into the hospital soon. During this upcoming stay, he will undergo a two-week evaluation process, wait for a donor's heart, and proceed with surgery and recovery. While these steps are life-saving, the financial burden is overwhelming.

Why We Need Your Help

Heart Transplant Costs: On December 2, Roger received news that he was laid off from his job because they are experiencing a slow time. Though he currently has good insurance, losing his job puts his insurance in limbo at the end of the month. Even with insurance, the costs associated with a heart transplant can be staggering. He must secure funds to cover testing, surgical expenses, post-operative care, and medications.

Additionally, he faces:

Relocation Expenses: Roger needs a first-floor apartment with a fenced yard to care for his 13-year-old dog, Remy, who has been his loyal companion for over a decade. Due to his physical limitations, Roger hasn’t been able to have Remy by his side since September, and bringing him home for recovery is a top priority.

Living Costs: Even before being laid off, Roger had exhausted his paid sick days. His company had been generous in allowing him to take time off, but his last paycheck was only $61 due to missed days. He will need support for rent, utilities, and basic needs throughout his recovery.

Business Start-Up Costs: Roger has never enjoyed being on the receiving end of help. He has a business idea that will allow him to channel his creativity while earning income from home and the hospital during his recovery. A portion of the funds will help him bring this vision to life and regain his independence.

Family Support Expenses: I’ve been regularly traveling to care for Roger and Remy. Since I live just shy of 2.5 hours away, I’ll be traveling weekly to assist with appointments, pack up his apartment, and stay in Pittsburgh to support him pre- and post-recovery.

Roger is more than just my brother; he is a dreamer and an overcomer. Despite a tough childhood and countless obstacles, he has created a life filled with creativity and connection. Every time I walk the streets of South Side with him, we run into people who know him, and he spreads good humor and kindness wherever he goes. As a dedicated artist, he has so many ideas to share his skills with the world, and with a new heart, he’ll be able to pursue his dreams and inspire others.

How You Can Help

Every dollar counts and will make a life-saving difference. If you’re unable to donate, we welcome your prayers and would greatly appreciate you sharing Roger’s story with your friends, family, and community. Together, we can give him the opportunity to live life fully—and bring Remy home to his best friend.

From the bottom of our hearts, we cannot express enough gratitude for your prayers, kindness, and generosity. It truly means the world to us.