Rios’ fight continues

Clarissa and husband Julian

By TRINA “INDI” JOHNSON
Special to the NEWS

Clarissa Ortiz Rios is in the fight of her life, and her family is asking the community for support.

A BBQ Chicken Plate Fundraiser will be held Saturday, July 26, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Chuy’s Custom Sports in San Benito to help cover the medical expenses tied to Clarissa’s ongoing cancer treatment.

Plates are $10 and include BBQ chicken, rice, beans, jalapeño, and bread. Proceeds will support travel to Houston, medications, medical equipment, and other critical needs.

“She’s still fighting,” said her husband, Julian J. Rios. “She’s tired, and her body is working overtime just to process the effects of her condition. But her spirit is strong.” Clarissa, known to her loved ones as Clari, has spent the last six years in and out of treatment for multiple forms of cancer.

In 2019, she was diagnosed with both melanoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. After undergoing surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation, she entered a period of remission. But in October 2023, her world shifted again when doctors discovered recurring squamous cell carcinoma at the base of her tongue.

“She’s been fighting cancer for years, first melanoma and lymphoma, and now recurring squamous cell carcinoma,” Rios said. “Through it all, she’s faced every setback with strength, courage, and hope.” Clarissa has since been under the care of specialists at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.

Earlier this year, there were signs of progress. A March PET scan showed no visible cancer. But that hope was quickly followed by a downturn in her health, including trouble breathing, nerve complications, and severe fatigue. Doctors performed an emergency tracheostomy and are now running new scans to determine whether the cancer has spread to her brain or neck.

The outcome of those tests could define her next steps. According to Rios, doctors are now weighing long-term chemotherapy or hospice care. “Neither path is easy, but Clari has expressed to us she still has fight in her,” he said.

The fundraiser is one way her family is trying to give her that chance. Supporters can also donate directly through CashApp at $jurivers. Volunteers are welcome to help with serving, delivery, or cleanup. To get involved or purchase tickets, call or text (956) 244-6561.

“The funds will go directly toward Clari’s medical care, including continued treatment at MD Anderson, travel costs, prescriptions, medical equipment, and anything else she needs,” Rios said. “It will also help ease the financial pressure on our family during this difficult time.”

Even as they manage the stress of test results and treatment decisions, the Rios family has been moved by the encouragement they’ve received from others. “We’ve had an outpouring of love and support from our family and community, and it means the world to us,” he said. “Every share, donation, and show of support reminds us that Clari’s not in this fight alone.”

As the fundraiser approaches, one message continues to echo across the family’s efforts, printed on flyers, spoken through tears, and carried in prayer. “You Fight, We Fight.”

Chuy’s Custom Sports is located on 1975 US-77 BUS, San Benito.