Hello, my name is Sofia, and I’m creating this fundraiser on behalf of my father, Miguel Santiago, a loving 63-year-old father, grandfather, and lifelong Miami resident who is currently fighting for his life.
Miguel was recently diagnosed with Stage IV congestive heart failure and advanced pulmonary fibrosis — a devastating combination that has left his heart and lungs severely damaged. He’s currently hospitalized, connected to oxygen 24/7, and barely able to speak without gasping for breath. Doctors have told us that without a specialized treatment program and possible transplant evaluation at the Cleveland Clinic, his time may be very limited.
Miguel has always been a strong and selfless man. He worked as a carpenter for over 35 years, building homes across South Florida and never once complaining, even through scorching heat and hurricanes. He raised four children on his own after our mother passed away from breast cancer over a decade ago. He is our rock. Our protector. Our everything.
He’s also a proud grandfather of seven grandchildren, who adore their “Abuelo Mike.” They don’t understand why he’s in the hospital, why he can’t play with them anymore, or why he always looks so tired. It breaks our hearts.
Our family is doing everything we can, but we’ve hit a wall financially. Miguel doesn’t have private insurance, and the public programs only cover a fraction of what’s needed. The cost of hospital stays, in-home nursing care, oxygen therapy, cardiac and pulmonary rehab, travel for consultations, and possible transplant prep is overwhelming — estimated to exceed $85,000 in the coming months.
We are humbly asking for your help.
Every dollar you give will go directly toward Miguel’s treatment, his care, and easing the crushing burden on our family. We’re praying for a miracle, and we know that with your support, we can give our dad a fighting chance.
Even if you can’t donate, please consider sharing this page. Your words, your prayers, and your compassion mean more to us than you’ll ever know.
Thank you for standing with us during the hardest fight of our lives.
With love and gratitude,
Sofia Santiago & the Santiago Family
