Ramiro's Road 2 Recovery

Friends and Family,

Recently a dear friend of mine filled me in on something happening in his and his partner's life that touched my heart.

I'm sharing with you the story of someone truly special who needs our help navigating the many unexpected financial burdens that arise from a cancer diagnosis.

A few years ago (thanks to social media), I reconnected with one of my super cool, brainiac friends (from High school) named Steven. Steven and I began communicating back and forth, almost as if the past several decades spanning the time between our teens and now hadn't somehow changed the friendship. We've always had great conversations and, after reconnecting, we just picked up where we had left off!

Then, it happened. Steven told me that his partner, Ramiro, had recently been diagnosed with colorectal cancer. That was a difficult conversation.

A cancer diagnosis doesn't just affect the person diagnosed; it affects the entire family. And when the future feels uncertain, organizing and planning suddenly seems overwhelming.

Steven and Ramiro have a wonderful and supportive family. Ramiro's mother gave up her job to come stay with him and care for him. Ramiro's father is working full time, as is Steven. Ramiro and his family are Mexican Nationals, and, like the majority of families in Mexico, they do not have medical insurance.

I believe we can all relate to the feeling of not wanting our loved ones to experience unnecessary pain and suffering. I also think what is relatable is the uncomfortable feelings associated with asking for and accepting help from others.

For those not aware, colon cancer runs in my family and I deal with various GI issues. Listening to Steven tell me about what Ramiro is going through got to me on a personal level.

It is for these reasons I told Steven that I would like to help him and Ramiro by organizing this fundraiser.

Donations will help offset the significant costs related to treating cancer. Ramiro currently has an inoperable tumor, so the current plan is to do Chemotherapy first to reduce the size of the tumor, then re-evaluate the tumor and determine a treatment plan.

The funds raised in this campaign will primarily be used to offset the costs of six Chemotherapy treatments, hospital visits, pain management, and miscellaneous costs such as Dr appointments, further testing, medical supplies, and possible future surgery.

Please help me help Steven and Ramiro so they can concentrate on Ramiro getting well and fighting the wicked "C" word.

From the bottom of my heart, I humbly ask that you share this link with friends and family and, if possible, in giving (any amount will help).

Steven, Ramiro, and I thank you for your support, kind words, prayers, and positive energy.