Nestor's Fighting Journey with Cancer

My name is Maria Castillo, I'm the daughter of Nestor Castillo. I decided to make this page to create awareness of the situation my dad is going through. He lives in Peru after immigrating from Venezuela, which is our country of origin. He was lucky enough to obtain refuge status from the Peruvian government and later on got a job, allowing him to take his wife (Lorena) and two kids (Ricardo and Diego) with him. 

My dad was diagnosed with prostate cancer in September of 2019 at the age of 64. His fight started strong, he knew the journey ahead would be tough and there would be moments where his resilience would be tested. As he continues his battle, I see how he never gives up and always looks for the positive side on things. His will power continues to grow because he trusts God and gives thanks for the strength he continues to provides through it all. My dad continues to have a happy and goofy personality and I'm grateful to see his spirit so STRONG. 

My dad has already gone through 3 rounds of chemotherapy. He took each step like a champion and continues to do so. We are not sure how may more rounds of chemo he will need yet as it is dependent on how his body reacts to the treatment. During his fight with cancer he has had major scares due to his weaker immune system resulting in his blood count going down; resulting in several blood transfusions. Luckily this treatment has helped, and his medications keep his body at a stable level.

Unfortunately, he went back to the hospital this week because he was having episodes of fever, vomiting, dehydration, low blood pressure and low sugar levels. Once he was hospitalized, he was told that his body was fighting an infection but the doctors can't find the source of it. Multiple tests are being done, to make sure the cancer has not spread to other organs. However, his blood pressure and sugar levels continue to stay at a risky level and now his platelets and white cell count are decreasing. He was given another blood transfusion hoping his body can balance itself again. Having cancer and fighting an infection can create unforeseen complications and that is what doctors are trying to avoid. 

I'm glad that the public medical system in Peru helps all patients, but that means their resources are limited. My dad needs to bring his own personal supplies like shampoo, towels, toilet paper, razors, lotions, tooth paste, tooth brush, pillows, etc. In addition, the hospital where he is at is not equipped to treat his condition and he will need to be transferred to a different facility, but he is not stable enough to do so yet. Since my dad has basic insurance, it doesn't cover all of his medications and treatment, so he needs to pay out of pocket. Since we are currently living in a pandemic, my dad's salary has been cut to 25% providing only enough for immediate bills and food for my brothers. 

My husband and I have been able to send some monetary help, however, the journey is long and expenses continue to pile on. I understand that plenty of people in the world are struggling due to COVID-19, however, I hope that anyone who reads this can open their heart and show their generosity. Money won’t help cure my dad but it will for sure give him a calm state of mind knowing he can continue his treatment and have the opportunity to live. I would appreciate any and all the help possible. I wish for my little brothers whom are 16 and 11, to continue to have a dad and for her wife of 23 years to have her partner for as long as God allows him to be in this earth and for me to expand my family so my future kids can meet their awesome grandfather. 

I give thanks to those that can help with any monetary contribution; every bit helps. If a monetary contribution is not possible, I ask to please keep my dad in your prayers. Pray for the health of a man that has not and will not give up, always smiles and loves unconditionally. God makes miracles and I have faith that my dad will be healthy again!