by Alison Warwick Fernandes
Alison Warwick Fernandes shares an update about her husband’s, Eric Fernandes, health journey and asking for strength, love and support.
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As many of you know, Eric was diagnosed in early December with Squamous Cell Carcinoma Stage 4. Ali has done her very best to keep people informed as things have progressed, but the rapid pace at which Eric’s condition has evolved has made it difficult to share updates in a way that reaches everyone in real time.
Over the past two weeks, Eric’s treatment plan and prognosis have changed at nearly every appointment. Below is a high-level summary of what has occurred to date, as well as the next steps.
Initially, his cancer was considered curable, with a plan for immediate surgery. At a subsequent appointment, this plan changed to immunotherapy followed by a less invasive surgery. Over the Christmas break, after his first immunotherapy treatment, Eric experienced fluctuating swelling and ongoing challenges with pain management.
When Eric returned to his care team in the January, doctors shared that his cancer had progressed far more aggressively than anticipated, describing it as having “exploded.” Treatment plans then shifted repeatedly between chemotherapy, radiation, or a combination of both. Surgery was no longer considered an option due to the extent of the spread.
At Eric’s most recent appointments, CAT scan results revealed devastating findings that showed the severity of the spread. His cancer has now extended into his chest cavity and armpits, as well as down both sides of his neck. Based on these results, Eric’s cancer is now considered stage 4 non-curable.
As a result of this change, Eric was admitted immediately to Toronto General Hospital, which works closely with Princess Margaret. Overnight, Eric underwent a tracheotomy and had a feeding tube placed. He remains under close monitoring by hospital staff.
Radiation treatment was scheduled to begin on Friday, January 23rd. The family is hopeful that this course of treatment will reduce Eric’s swelling and pain enough for him to return home to recover peacefully, surrounded by his family and friends.
**If anyone has any connections to urgent clinical trials, ideas, thoughts and suggestions to help us build on our fight, please reach out! ❤️
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Friends of the family are asking for help to ease the financial burden during this difficult time. Donations will go toward: support they so deeply deserve. Eric will experience a loss of wages during this period, as he is currently employed in a contract position and does not receive compensation while being off work. Additionally, Alison will be taking a leave of absence from her employment as they focus on recovery and care, medical expenses, accommodations in Toronto while Andi and Eric undergo treatments and testing in the coming months.
Daughter Andi is also scheduled to begin specialized care at SickKids in Toronto in February 2026 after being diagnosed with epilepsy.
Alison has also been in consultation with cancer centres in the USA in hopes to explore an option for a clinical trial to continue the fight. **If anyone has ideas or connections around this, please reach out to Bronte Myers on Facebook or email brontejohnston505@gmail.com
This family has always been the first to step up, donating, fundraising, and supporting others in need. Alison volunteers on numerous boards and tirelessly advocates for those who need help. Now, it’s their turn to receive the support they so desperately need … to help, visit the family at Go Fund Me.
Every contribution, big or small, will make a difference. Please consider donating to help Ali, Eric, and Andi navigate the road ahead with strength and hope.
