At Black Girl Nerds, our community includes the writers who have shared their voices with us over the years. Today, one of those writers, Donnie Lopez, needs our support.
Donnie is 36 years old and has been living with stage 4 rectal cancer for approximately two years. A GoFundMe has been organized to help him with meals, care for his dog, and everyday expenses as his illness makes it increasingly difficult to manage daily life.
For those who remember Donnie’s time at BGN, this is an opportunity to show up for someone who once contributed to the conversations that brought us together.
According to the fundraiser organizer, Donnie initially went into remission, but a scan in February of this year revealed that his cancer had returned. The organizer reports that it has spread to his lymph nodes and that recent scans have also shown small spots in his lungs.
Following the recurrence, Donnie underwent additional chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Unfortunately, the cancer continued to grow despite those treatments. His doctors eventually stopped standard treatment because it was no longer helping and was causing significant side effects.
Donnie also participated in a clinical trial, which has since been stopped following the findings on his latest scans. He is currently waiting to hear from his doctor about whether another treatment option may be available.
While he waits for answers, the physical toll has become increasingly difficult. His sister Daisy Blanco, who is also the organizer of the GFM, says Donnie is experiencing significant pain and has trouble walking for extended periods. Cooking, cleaning, and other everyday tasks have become harder to handle on his own.
These are needs that can sometimes get lost in conversations about cancer. A meal still needs to be prepared. A dog still needs to be walked and cared for. Household responsibilities and expenses continue, even when someone’s energy and mobility have changed dramatically.
Donnie is currently on leave from work and using his sick time. Although he has health insurance through his job, that coverage does not eliminate the many practical expenses that come with being seriously ill. The fundraiser is intended to help ease those pressures and provide support with the daily responsibilities he is struggling to manage.
The person organizing the fundraiser also wants readers to know something about Donnie beyond his diagnosis: He has always loved writing and sharing his thoughts.
That love of writing is what led Daisy to reach out to BGN. Although several years have passed since Donnie contributed to the publication, the Daisy remembers how much he enjoyed being part of it. That connection matters to us. The people who have written for BGN are part of its history, and their contributions remain part of the community we have built. Donnie’s time here is a reminder that behind every byline is a person with a life, relationships, responsibilities, and a voice worth hearing.
If you are able, please consider donating to Donnie’s GoFundMe. Contributions will help provide meals, assistance with caring for his dog, and support for everyday expenses while he navigates his illness. Sharing the fundraiser can also help connect his story with others who may be able to contribute.
Right now, Donnie needs practical help and a community willing to show up. We hope the BGN family will help ease some of the weight he is carrying.
To support Donnie, donate or share his fundraiser here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-donnies-fight-against-cancer
