About this fundraiser

For decades, my dad has been the epitome of hard work and love. He’s dedicated his life to providing for our family, often working long hours and overtime to ensure we had everything we needed and more. His devotion as a father is unwavering — he would give the world for his children, always putting us first. He’s the kind of man who ensures his family is taken care of, even if it means sacrificing his well-being.

In December 2024, my dad began to show signs of illness. But true to his nature, he put off going to the doctor to give our family an incredible Christmas. He tirelessly worked long days and hours to earn as much as he could to make sure we had a wonderful holiday, despite feeling unwell. He never complained.

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Dad and family on Christmas Day after he worked from dawn to 4 pm

But by January 2024, things took a turn for the worse. One day, while driving, my dad completely lost his memory — he couldn’t remember where he was or what he was doing. This sudden shift quickly led to severe cognitive decline. He became confused, unable to recognize even recent conversations, and struggled with basic tasks, losing his ability to walk, use a cell phone, and eat. His memory was stuck in 2016, and he couldn’t recall anything that had happened in the moments before.

Dad in the hospital, preparing for the brain biopsy that would diagnose him

After 55 days in the hospital, three transfers (one of which was two hours away), and a series of invasive tests — including spinal taps — we received the devastating diagnosis: neurological lymphoma

 

The tumors in his brain have been growing rapidly, showing signs of a very aggressive form of the disease. Doctors estimate that he may have had an estimated three months of untreated lymphoma, which makes his case even more urgent.

 

Currently, the doctors are recommending intensive treatments, including bone marrow testing and a daily regimen of three different types of chemotherapy. 

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Even after being in the hospital for an extensive amount of time, he still has a smile on his face

To administer this treatment, he will need to stay in the hospital 3-5 days per week for the foreseeable future. His journey will be long and challenging.

With my dad only receiving a small portion of his regular pay while on disability leave which will soon run out, the financial burden on our family has been overwhelming. On top of this, we’re planning a wedding later this year, and I’ve been trying to support my dad with his medical bills and other expenses. 

 

Medical bills continue to pile up — from expensive medications that need to be refilled every 1-3 weeks to the costs of hotel transports, food, and the mounting treatment and hospitalization expenses.

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Dad trying to eat with a smile on his face

We desperately need your help. Every dollar counts. Whether it’s $5 or any amount you can afford, your donation will directly support my dad’s medical treatments, our family’s bills, and the ongoing care he so urgently needs. This is an incredibly difficult time for our family, and the financial stress is weighing heavily on all of us.

Please consider helping us navigate this journey, whether through a donation or by sharing this campaign with others. Your support means the world to us, and it will help give my dad the chance to fight this battle with the love and strength he’s always shown us.

Thank you for being a part of our journey.

Organized by

Madeline Canales

Orlando, FL, USA

Organizer