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Lupe’s father was diagnosed with Esophageal Cancer Stage 3 (T3, N3) on September 21, 2012. The family was devastated. The doctors had given him his options and dad had decided along with their mother that he was going to fight and beat this sentence he was given. In late October he started his rounds of chemotherapy and radiation and in January of 2013, he had a complete esophagectomy.

He was able to return home a few weeks later and was continuously monitored by his doctors and family members. He was able to swallow again and eat some of his favorite foods temporarily. In November 2013, they found out the cancer had spread to the tip of the stomach and both lungs. He was once again devastated and was determined to fight until the end. He lost the battle February 11, 2014 in the presence of his wife of 53 years and seven children who loved and adored the ground he walked on. He was only 77 years old.

Lupe is hoping that the Stories to Save Lives event will help raise awareness about this deadly disease.