Support the Ramirez Family

Tony Ramirez, age 14,  was diagnosed with a brain tumor on June 18, 2020.  Tony was experiencing migraines and dizziness for several weeks with very little relief from medications.  On the morning of June 18 he started having double vision, his eyes were crossed, and he was walking into walls.  He was rushed to the hospital where an MRI revealed the tumor.  This unexpected diagnosis has left the Ramirez family shocked and devastated.  Tony is currently at Children's Hospital of Michigan waiting for more tests and surgery.  An initial surgery to insert a shunt to ease pressure and swelling was completed.  The tumor is large and will require at least two separate surgeries to remove, possibly more.  The first surgery for tumor removal is currently scheduled for June 30, which will be done by 2 surgeons that specialize in the planned approach. Radiation may be required as well to help shrink the tumor.  Tony's physicians believe the tumor is benign, but won't know for sure until they can remove some of the tumor and send for pathology testing.  The recovery time after each surgery is expected to be 3 to 6 weeks in the ICU.  Since the tumor is in close proximity to the pituitary gland, a gland that plays a major role in many bodily functions including regulation of hormones, Tony will be on multiple medications for the rest of his life.  In addition,  Tony will require rehabilitation after the tumor removal to regain strength and possibly relearn some basic functions, which could be an additional 3 months.  Only one parent is allowed to be with Tony in the hospital due to Covid-19 restrictions, so Stacia and Luis are are taking 24 hour shifts to be at his side.

Due to the long road ahead for Tony, his parents are faced with trying to keep their family afloat financially while also being with Tony every step of the way to help aid in his recovery and rehabilitation.  While the hospital is working with them to try to help with the medical costs, there will still be many medical bills to pay.  In addition, Stacia has taken an unpaid leave of absence from work to be at Tony's side, so they will lose her income.  Luis is a seasonal worker and spring and summer are when he makes most of his income for the year.  He has already lost much work time due to the pandemic, and now he will be taking additional time off during his busiest season, to be at Tony's side during his surgeries and other procedures.

The Ramirez family needs our support.  Friends and family have asked how they can help.  Please consider a donation, whatever amount you can spare, which is the best way to help so that Stacia and Luis can focus on getting Tony well and not worrying about how they will pay their bills.  We will post updates as Tony begins his surgeries and we have more information on his condition.