Next week, 18-year-old Eli Rivera was supposed to be moving into his college dorm.
Next week, 18-year-old Eli Rivera was supposed to be moving into his college dorm.
Instead, he’ll be in a hospital room in San Antonio, Texas, beginning a completely unexpected fight.
Eli recently graduated from high school and was preparing to attend Texas A&M–Kingsville this fall to study Civil Engineering.
College.
New friends.
A dorm room.
A degree.
All the things an 18-year-old should be looking forward to.
But about a month ago, Eli began feeling sick. After doctors performed tests, his family received news they never expected:
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia, or ALL.
Now, instead of preparing for college, Eli is receiving treatment at Methodist Hospital in San Antonio.
His uncle Juan reached out hoping people would surround Eli and his family with prayers and encouragement.
The timing makes this especially difficult.
While families across Texas are preparing their children for college, Eli’s family is learning about treatment, hospital stays, and what it means to watch a young man suddenly face a serious health challenge.
But his family wants everyone to know one thing:
They are not giving up on Eli’s future.
They still picture him walking onto his college campus.
They still see him studying Civil Engineering, laughing with friends, playing the football and soccer he loves, and eventually living the life he had planned.
His family shared a message that says it all:
“This is only the beginning of Eli’s story.”
For now, Eli needs an army of support.
Pray for Eli as he begins treatment.
Pray for strength and healing.
Pray for his doctors and nurses.
Pray for his family as they stand beside him.
And pray that one day soon, we get to see that college move-in picture after all.
What would you tell Eli as he begins this journey? Leave him an encouraging message below.
Disclaimer: This caption is based on information shared by Eli’s family. His treatment and prognosis should be understood according to his healthcare team. This post is intended for supportive and informational purposes and is not medical advice.
