Let's help the Rechirei family

Born on May 17, 1988, and raised in the Republic of Palau, I enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in July 2006, completing my recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, CA. Currently stationed at Camp Pendleton, CA, I live on base with my wife, Danielle Rechirei, and our family. We have four children: Angelina (20), Ariana (12), Ella (10), and Newheart Jr. (4).

Danielle and I met while I was stationed in Germany, and we have been married for over 12 years. Originally from Los Angeles, Danielle’s family provides essential support, for which we are deeply grateful. Throughout my Marine Corps career, we have been stationed in various locations, including Stuttgart, Germany; New Orleans, LA; San Diego, CA; Miramar, CA; Kansas City, MO; and now Camp Pendleton, CA.

In January 2017, our family experienced the profound loss of our daughter, Ariana, while I was serving as a drill instructor at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego. Danielle, along with Angelina, Ariana, and Newheart Jr., have been diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis Type I, a condition that affects our youngest, Newheart Jr., most severely. He is currently on daily MEK inhibitor treatments to manage plexiform neurofibromas, low-grade gliomas, and alleviate non-tumor symptoms, such as bone pain and neurocognitive challenges. This treatment requires regular visits to the Children’s Hospital in Los Angeles.

Amid a demanding work schedule and frequent hospital visits, our family treasures time together, often spending days at the beach, where we can relax and enjoy the ocean. Selected for the Marine Corps’ warrant officer program, I will begin training in January 2025. As we look forward to this next chapter, we hope that our family can remain at Camp Pendleton to continue Newheart Jr.’s treatment while I fulfill the needs of the Marine Corps, wherever that may take me.

Love,

The Rechirei Family