Help with cancer treatment cost for Marilyse

Hello, my name is Ashley Escribano. I am writing this on behalf of my cousin Marilyse (Mari) Colon, who was hospitalized for stomach pain. After testing and emergency surgery, Mari was diagnosed with Dysgerminoma. Dysgerminoma is a rare germ-cell cancer found in young females’ reproductive organs.

Medical professionals reassured Felicia (Mari’s mother) and Mari that all malignant cells were gone because of surgery where Mari’s right ovary and right fallopian tube were removed. In December of 2022, Mari was officially in remission. And they continued to follow up with the necessary monitoring and testing as recommended by the medical professionals.

In March 2023, follow-up medical procedures were scheduled to track Mari’s remission. During this procedure, 15 lesions were found in Mari’s abdomen; biopsies were taken to test for cancer. Sadly, in May 2023, the family was informed that Mari was no longer in remission and that the Dysgerminoma had returned. Pediatric oncology specialists have made the best treatment plans to overcome cancer. Many of these treatments include a series of fertility-preserving procedures to ensure that Mari can have a family in the future.

Unfortunately, medical insurance companies will not cover the cost of many treatments Mari’s medical team has set up to start; due to Dysgerminoma being poorly researched and having little evidenced based practice to support the insurance’s definition of “medically necessary.” Mari’s medical team has shown the family multiple studies that they have done with their patients who have had these treatments; they can guarantee a 90% success rate of survival and an 80% success rate of being able to carry a child if treatments are followed as prescribed.

The Family of Marilyse asks that you find it in your heart to donate to help cover all medical expenses. We greatly appreciate any amount that can be donated to support her through these trying times. No 17-year-old should have to undergo cancer treatment, especially in their senior year of high school. We wish this pain on no one and pray that Jesus’ mercy protects all children from childhood diseases.