The Silent Trooper

One of my closest friends has been going through a rough patch in his life. We all can relate in saying we hate cancer, put in the most appropriate wording at least. Let me tell you a little bit about my close friend… no my brother; he is resilient and throughout this entire process has kept quiet because he refuses to show any signs of weakness. Braulio is currently recovering from surgery and is doing his best to remain active throughout this pandemic. Being in this condition, social distancing is at top priority as he cannot afford to become ill.

Braulio was diagnosed with two types of cancer. The first discovery was two tumors throughout his neck while also residing in his chest. These were found to be cancerous and needed to be removed immediately. Shortly before surgery it was discovered that he also had Thyroid Cancer, and would also needed to be operated. Braulio was unable to have any loved ones by his side during his surgery. Entering alone and awaking to only doctors and nurses hovering over him. Luckily, the love found a way to reach him. As when he had recovered and gathered up enough strength, he answered as many calls as he could to let everyone know he was doing okay, and his loved ones kept him company via phone calls and text messages.

Upon being discharged, the transition was hard, yet again not being able to see anyone but his immediate family. This quarantine situation was making it very difficult to feel any kind of comfort or support. Braulio never expressing any of these emotions, as someone who has known him for as long as I can remember, I can just tell when he doesn’t feel like himself. As he battled with the thoughts in his head and the impact of being isolated, Braulio has begun to allow the financial cost of surgery and the following treatments that have yet to come; to consume him during this resting period. Not knowing how he can possibly afford such expenses; his head is just spinning and for someone who is going through so much and having to go through everything alone at that. We all can relate that when we are alone, thoughts can consume and get the better of us.

As his friend I have consulted with many of Braulio’s loved ones, and as a collective group we have decided that we could spread the word and ask for the help from our community, as well as our distant communities. Personally, I ask that everyone take a chance to read this and share it with everyone you know. We can all make a difference as these times are very difficult for us all. Life is too short to remain quiet during times of need.

My brother Braulio isn’t one to ever ask for help, but his loved ones will always make the effort to help him in any way possible and this is just one way that we thought could begin to help him during his recovery.

Braulio is feeling blessed to be here with us today, and is grateful for the love and support that he continues to receive.