Barbieri Student With Leukemia Needs Bone Marrow Transplant

In May, doctors diagnosed Fernando Lopez, 10, with ETP Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

Fernando was forced to trade in the fun, end-of-year activities with his fourth grade class at Barbieri Elementary to begin treatments at Children's Hospital, where he will remain indefinitely, said Tara Foynes, whose son has been friends with Fernando since Kindergarten.

Fernando's treatments have not been working and now he is in need of a bone marrow transplant, said Foynes, who has set up a GoFundMe site to help the family. 

The Lopez family lost one son in November and Fernando was diagnosed with Leukemia in May.

Fernando is still grieving for his older brother Juan and should not have to face this difficult time alone, said Foynes.

"We may not be able to take away any of the emotional pain but we as a community can help relieve some of the financial burden the family is facing. Being by Fernando's side at the hospital in Boston as they try to maintain their jobs in Framingham is physically, mentally & emotionally overwhelming," wrote Foynes on the GoFundMe.com site. 

"Let's support the Lopez family so their days don't seem impossible and they can focus on what's most important - Fernando's medical care. With the power of a caring community and God's help they can receive the support they'll need to get through the months ahead," wrote Foynes.

All funds raised will contribute directly to his medical expenses, as well as the family's daily travel & parking expenses.

The fund was started last week and as of midnight, July 21, 17 individuals had contributed $1,060 in four days.

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Originally posted at 2 a.m. Updated at 10:58 a.m.