As many of you may know, my mom Tatiana Mindlin, has been the cornerstone of my life and a driving force behind my musical journey. From the very beginning, she has nurtured my creative dreams and gave me the courage to pursue a path that isn’t always easy. Now, she is facing the toughest challenge of her life: a battle against brain cancer.
On May 30th, while visiting her chiropractor, Tatiana experienced a series of seizures in her car. Saved by quick actions of the chiropractor and their staff, subsequent MRIs revealed an aggressive malignant brain tumor (Glioblastoma) in her frontal lobe. Given the tumor’s rapid growth, she will undergo an urgent craniotomy, followed by radiation and chemotherapy. This intensive treatment plan offers the best chance of prolonging her life, with a median survival of 12-18 months.
Unfortunately, this all comes at an extremely high financial cost, as family medical leave only holds her employment until August 23rd. After a lifetime of working several jobs simultaneously (literally up until her seizures), she will lose all employment, medical insurance and income while in recovery from surgery. Because of this, she will need to purchase additional medical insurance to bridge the months between August and late December when she can apply for Medicare.
If you’ve been fortunate enough to have Tatiana in your life in any capacity, it’s likely she’s among the most generous and supportive people you know. Her boundless capacity for love and empathy has provided the light that’s guided many of us through our darkest days.
A first time mom at 16 with two kids by her 19th birthday, she would have another at 24 and raise all three as a single immigrant parent with a relentless drive to support them in every way.
Despite the challenges (including a successful battle with breast cancer in 2015), she’s always been there for those around her, offering her time, love, guidance, and unwavering support. Whether through her work as a medical language interpreter, helping patients navigate difficult moments, or through her creative pursuits as an art curator and singer/songwriter, touching countless hearts with her talents. Her acts of kindness, big and small, have made a lasting impact on so many, and I know she’s touched your lives in some way through the music she inspired in me.
Now, it’s our turn to support her. We’ve set up a GoFundMe page, and our goal is to raise funds to cover her living expenses, medical bills, and ensure she’s as comfortable as possible during this difficult time. We want Tatiana to spend her remaining time surrounded by love, comfort, and the people she cherishes.
If Tatiana has ever brought a smile to your face, or if my music has resonated with you in some way, I humbly ask you to consider donating. No contribution is too small, and every bit of help means the world to us. Whether through a donation, sharing the campaign with others, or sending positive thoughts and prayers, your support is deeply appreciated.
My mother’s life has been a journey of love, creativity, and resilience. She has inspired us all with her boundless empathy, her laughter, and her wisdom. Let’s come together to help this incredible woman who has given so much to so many.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your love and unwavering support.
With gratitude,
Amerigo Gazaway
Another great way to support is by purchasing some of Tatiana’s original music via Bandcamp.
