Guinea Grass Man Needs Assistance After Cancer Diagnosis

A father from Guinea Grass village in Orange Walk is urgently seeking help for his 38-year-old son, Pedro Novelo, who is suffering from peritoneal carcinosis (PC) and suspected hepatic cirrhosis. According to Dr. Jorge Falcon’s medical report, Pedro was “admitted on 16th May, 2024, due to abdominal pain/Dengue. He underwent surgery (exploratory laparotomy) on 21st May, 2024, due to intestinal occlusion.” Dr. Falcon further reported that Pedro’s “findings were peritoneal carcinosis and suspected hepatic cirrhosis.” 

Peritoneal carcinosis is a serious condition where cancer cells spread to the peritoneum, the thin membrane lining the abdominal cavity. It can occur as a result of various types of cancer, including ovarian, colon, stomach, pancreatic, and appendix cancers.

Amadeo Novelo says Pedro fell while working in the fields cutting cane, and the injury worsened his existing health condition. Since the accident, Pedro’s health has deteriorated, severely affecting his lungs and intestines.

“He was cutting cane and fell. Then my son was taken to the hospital. Then the doctor said that he takes a lot of pills for and that affected him,” said Amadeo.

Amadeo said that Pedro was hospitalised for five months at the Northern Regional Hospital (NRH) in Orange Walk and underwent surgery to remove part of his intestines. However, the surgery revealed that his illness had eaten away at his intestines, leaving him in a critical state. Amadeo further explained that after his son was discharged from NRH, the doctor informed the family that Pedro will unfortunately no longer be able to work. “We’ve been spending a lot; we’re taking care of him, but he can’t work. I’m 69 years old now,” said Amadeo. 

Since being discharged, Pedro has been under the care of his mother, but the family is struggling to cover basic needs. “We are spending a lot on Pampers. A pack of Pampers costs about $19. Right now, his mother is using pieces of cloth to clean and bandage his wounds. Cloths that she has to wash with bleach and reuse because we cannot afford new ones,” he added. 

The family is pleading for the assistance of anyone to help with medical supplies, food, and basic necessities. “I ask the public, if you can help me, I’ll appreciate it. Every little bit counts,” Amadeo stated.

 

Pedro’s next doctor visit is scheduled for December 19. That’s when the family will know when the next surgery will be. However, the family is unsure how they will manage the costs and prepare Pedro for that procedure. They are asking for donations, especially food and medical supplies like gauze and a waist belt for Pedro’s recovery.

Anyone who wishes to help can contact Amadeo Novelo at 650-4078.