Now in the medical "match" of his life against Type 1 Diabetes, pool legend Rafael Martinez is displaying the heart he is famous for while using every ounce of fight he has to save his legs from the very serious effects that Type 1 is having on his legs.

Rafael Martinez is a professional pool player, famous for winning the Bicycle Club Casino 9-Ball Open in LA in 1994, and known for beating Efren Reyes on at least five occasions, when both players were in their prime.

Rafael rose to fame as the greatest Mexican pro player ever, and subsequently transcended that honor to become one of the greatest, most respected, and feared players in the entire world. 

While Rafael has the stone cold face of a poker champion on the table, he has always competed with respect for the game, and for his opponents.  Not known for being loud and boisterous in the pro arena, those close to him know a thoughtful and intelligent man who can carry an intelligent conversation with much wisdom to share.  This man is a treasure, both as a friend and as a pro pool legend who surely deserves and has earned a place in the BCA Hall of Fame.  

Rafael has struggled with Type 1 for most of his life, and right now he needs skin grafts for his legs and medical bill financial support for the necessary ongoing medical attention plus his basic living expenses in Colima, Mexico.  His decades old battle with Type 1 this has fueled his famous attention to detail with his diet and healthy lifestyle choices, yet it's a battle not always easily won, even with a strict dietary regimen. 

Here are some recent photos of his leg...   

However, the last few years have been difficult because of problems getting a visa to enter the United States where Rafael's opportunities to compete and teach for a living are much more abundant that in Mexico.  Recently he was able to compete in Germany, where he won first place in a 9-Ball tournament, and earned invitations into more international events where he belongs.  Rafael has never quit playing, and is still capable of the incredible shots and run outs that he is famous for.  

Rafael needs our help now.  As you can see the situation with his leg is in dire need of greater care and attention.  I will personally see to it that your donation makes it to Rafael through Remitly, as I am responsible for sending him 100% of the money received here. 

Note:  If money is too tight for you, even just $5 or $10 would make a big difference for Rafael.  He has thousands of die hard fans all over the world, imagine if 1,000 of them donated $10 bucks, it could mean the difference between him keeping his leg or not.  And we all want to see him healthy and playing in the good years he has remaining! 

Thank you so much for helping out our brother, and maestro of the game!  God bless you friend, and let us help God bless Rafael Martinez!