In Loving Memory of EJ

Hi,

We reach out to you today to ask you to help support our best friend’s family.

EJ was diagnosed with leiomyosarcoma cancer in early 2021, just one year after losing his father to stage 4 lung cancer in late 2019. EJ fought a courageous fight against his cancer. He spent a lot of his twenties in and out of different hospital rooms. He powered through major surgeries including removing his kidney, part of his liver, as well as an emergency craniotomy. Despite his many treatments and trials, he always stayed positive and hopeful.

Before his diagnosis, EJ hoped to use his background in graphic design to work in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. EJ was so much more than the difficulties he faced. He loved all things anime, K-pop, and gaming. His humour, enthusiasm and immense love for his friends and family brought them endless laughter and light. He was the kind of person who always stuck by your side. Your interest became his interest. He was always up for anything you’d want to do. His presence was warm and welcoming and he made you feel comfortable being yourself. If you knew EJ, you knew he was truly one of a kind.

As EJ’s cancer progressed, his mother took a leave of absence from work to care for him. Erica and Eldrin also worked to support their family. EJ’s brother, sister, and mother have been by his side every day throughout this difficult process. Their dedication to supporting EJ never wavered. Now, they deserve to rest as they grieve his loss.

EJ and his family planned to visit the Philippines a year after burying their dad there. However, covid restrictions forced them to delay the trip. As time went on, costs increased and EJ’s condition worsened. But EJ never lost hope that he'd visit his dad again. Near the end of his life, EJ requested to be buried alongside his father in the Philippines. This GoFundMe will go towards helping the Macaraig family with funeral costs. Any contribution will help to honour EJ’s wish. Please also consider sharing this GoFundMe with your networks to help maximize our reach.

Your support would mean so much to our best friend and her family. Thank you for taking the time to read a little about EJ’s story, and thank you for any help you can provide.

-Friends of the Macaraig family