Carlos Cruz has spent years uplifting the Dallas tennis community as a dedicated coach, mentor, and friend. Known for his kindness, encouragement, and infectious positivity on and off the court, Carlos has helped countless players grow not only as athletes but as people. Off the court he is equally as giving to anyone in need, stranger or not.
Today, Carlos is facing the toughest match of his life.
At just 29 years old, he was diagnosed in November 2025 with Spindle Cell Sarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer. He is currently undergoing intensive chemotherapy at UT Southwestern as he fights with everything he has.
Carlos’s treatment plan includes six rounds of inpatient chemotherapy, each requiring a four-day hospital stay every three weeks. He is about to begin Round 4 on March 10, 2026.
There is encouraging news: the cancer has not spread to his organs or bloodstream, which is extremely positive. However, the tumor has shown limited shrinkage so far and is located near critical blood vessels, including the celiac artery, which means surgery is not an option at this time. His medical team is closely monitoring how the tumor responds to chemotherapy, and radiation may be added to the treatment plan.
Chemotherapy is incredibly difficult. Some days Carlos feels hopeful and strong. Other days bring intense fatigue, nausea, and very little energy. Despite this, he continues to face each round with courage and determination.
Because his immune system is severely compromised and treatment is physically demanding, Carlos has been unable to work since November. As a tennis coach, his livelihood depended entirely on teaching lessons, working at the tennis center andstudent classes. When he cannot teach, there is no income.
Our mom is staying with him full-time to care for him during treatment, which means she is also unable to work. While our family helps as much as we can, the financial strain during this time is significant.
This fundraiser will help cover essential living expenses while Carlos focuses on treatment and recovery, including housing, health insurance premiums, medications, nutritious food, and basic day-to-day needs for both Carlos as our parents and family help care for him.
We are asking our community to rally around Carlos so he can focus fully on healing during this difficult fight.
Carlos is doing everything he can to stay strong: eating healthy foods, staying hydrated, and trying to maintain his weight during treatment. He also works hard to keep his spirits up during long days at home between chemo cycles.
We are deeply grateful to the incredible community (our behind the scenes angels!) that has already stepped up helping Carlos access UT Southwestern care, researching treatment options and insurance, assisting with housing during the early months, and surrounding him with messages, visits, and encouragement. The love from this village has been extraordinary.
Carlos has spent years lifting others up on and off the tennis court. Now it’s our turn to lift him up during the biggest match of his life.
Every contribution, large or small, helps Carlos focus on healing.
Many people have asked what level of support would be most helpful. While every contribution truly matters, some generous friends suggested that if those who are able consider gifts around $100 or $250, it can help us reach our goal more quickly and provide meaningful stability for Carlos during treatment. Of course, any amount and every share of this campaign is deeply appreciated.
For those who may be in a position to contribute at a higher level, your generosity can make an especially meaningful impact in helping Carlos maintain stability during treatment and we are incredibly grateful.
If you’re not able to give financially, there are still many meaningful ways to support Carlos:
• Invite him to a short gaming session on Xbox or PlayStation
• Help him explore music therapy or share music recommendations
• Send him playlist suggestions that lift your spirits
• Share your favorite Carlos tennis memory
• Call or text him during the day to help keep his spirits up
Your encouragement, kindness, and support mean more than words can express.
Thank you for being part of Carlos’s village and helping him fight this battle with strength, hope, and love. - The Cruz Family
