Community Rallies to Help Zando Fight For Survival in Leukemia Battle

Just three weeks ago, Alexander Zando Clovis was going about his daily life, unaware that his world was about to turn upside down. 

His wife, Jamlin Clovis, recalls the moment she knew something was wrong.

“He came to bring something for me, and I just looked at his face and told him, ‘You don’t look okay to me’,” she said. “He didn’t see it himself, but I knew something wasn’t right.”

Though hesitant at first, he eventually agreed to get checked, setting off a chain of events that led to a devastating diagnosis.

At the hospital, tests revealed his blood count was dangerously low–5.8, they said. Further tests confirmed that the 60-year-old father of five was battling the most aggressive form of leukemia. Doctors delivered the heartbreaking news that without urgent treatment abroad, Zando’s time was limited to mere weeks or months.

Zando, a hardworking auto body technician and devoted Christian, had no prior indication of how serious his condition was. His diagnosis has left his family scrambling to find a way to save his life. They have reached out to hospitals in Colombia and Holland, but the costs are overwhelming. 

His wife shared that the emergency airlift alone will require US$70 000, while the treatment is expected to cost at least US$250 000. That does not include accommodations and additional expenses.

Despite the immense financial strain, the family refuses to give up. The community has responded with an outpouring of support. Friends, neighbours, churches, and even strangers have come together, offering prayers, assistance, and donations. The support has extended beyond local circles, with well-known figures like cricket star Daren Sammy also reaching out.

A fundraiser has been organised for Sunday, March 16, at 2 p.m. at the Belle Vue playing field to help cover Zando’s medical expenses. 

The event will bring people together for a Soccer-Rama and BBQ, with tickets available through family members and the organising committee. 

Jamlin remains hopeful, holding onto faith despite the uncertainty. She believes that everything happens for a reason and that with the strength of the community and the power of prayer, Zando will have a fighting chance.

The family continues to appeal for help, knowing that every bit of support brings them closer to the treatment Zando desperately needs. A GoFundMe has also been started: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-alexander-fight-leukemia-urgent-aid-needed