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We are students of Grand Master Michael De Alba seeking your support for the De Alba family. GM De Alba has been a fixture in the international martial arts community for over 40 years. GM De Alba is more than a martial arts icon. He has been a mentor to many, selflessly generous to his students, friends and family. More importantly, he is a beloved father, husband, son and brother with effortless and unconditional love for his sons, Mike, Thomas and Brandon, and wife, Justine.
On October 18, 2017, Thomas De Alba collapsed from a grand mal seizure. We soon learned the devastating news that a large tumor had penetrated into a sensitive area of Thomas’ brain and caused the seizure. On November 15, 2017, UCSF doctors removed most of the orange-sized tumor after nine hours in surgery. The remnant tumor was treated through radiation and chemotherapy in San Francisco. Thomas’s doctors were optimistic about his recovery due to his age, athleticism, unshakable determination and deep well of love and support. They soon learned he is also a fighter.
Thomas began intensive therapy at St. Mary’s in San Francisco immediately after the surgery to address the resulting paralysis to the left side of his body. He pushed through therapy sessions with defiance, heart and determination. And typical of Thomas, he made friends with just about every therapist, doctor, employee, patient and guest at St. Mary’s. Most of the time, he powered through challenges and pain with a smile. He is a remarkable young man.
By about this time last year (March 2018), the several months of radiation and chemotherapy treatments seemed to have worked. The prognosis was good. Thomas was energized and determined to enter post-graduate studies. He continued strengthening his left side and trained with his father, regularly with the goal of obtaining his 3rd dan black belt.
Unfortunately, a second tumor appeared in Thomas’s brain in August 2018. Thomas’s doctors were confident this mass was treatable with a new round of radiation and chemotherapy. Thomas continued powering through rehabilitation and the treatments, experiencing highs and lows. His fighter’s spirit and family’s support got him through the lows, and by November 2018, he was steadily progressing.
The good news came in February 2019 that the new tumor was gone and the first tumor was shrinking. In February, the oncologist prescribed one final round of chemotherapy as a preventative measure. Once again, Thomas was energized and looking forward to school and training.
Several weeks ago, we were devastated to learn doctors found four new aggressive tumors. As of this second week of April, the tumors have grown and multiplied. Thomas’ doctors determined that they cannot safely treat the tumors. So, they determined the best course of action for Thomas now is hospice care, at home, with his family.
Thomas’ family has not asked for financial help in caring for Thomas over the past 18 months, although family and friends have been invaluable support. That is why we are seeking to assist the De Alba family in this most difficult time.
We are asking all Farang Mu Sul black belts and students, martial artists, family and friends to donate to the De Alba family to support them while they provide hospice care for Thomas at home and to cover the costs of his care not covered by insurance. GM De Alba has been Thomas’ full-time caretaker since October 2017, and Justine, is taking an extended leave of absence from work. They have no other income. Their intent was to dip into their savings to pay the out-of-pocket costs, which they have been doing for 18 months. So, let’s make sure they don’t need to do that. Let’s help them comfort Thomas with love and compassion. It is the Farang way.
Thank you for your love and support and for sharing this with your friends and families. FARANG!
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