GoFundMe Launched for Hesperia Family After Losing Third Son to Muscular Dystrophy

HESPERIA, Calif. (VVNG.com) — The family of Alexander Raven Cadilli is asking the community for support following his death after a lifelong battle with Muscular Dystrophy, the same disease that also claimed the lives of his two brothers.

A GoFundMe campaign created by Nanette Cadilli describes Alexander as someone who brought joy and strength to those around him while living with the disease.

“Alexander Raven Cadilli was a loving, creative, and resilient soul who touched the lives of everyone around him,” according to the GoFundMe organizer. “At just 28 years old, he passed away due to complications from Muscular Dystrophy, becoming the last of his brothers to succumb to this heartbreaking condition.”

According to the family, Alexander passed away on Feb. 28, 2026. His death follows the loss of his two brothers, who also battled the disease. Adrian Guerrero died in 2021 at the age of 28, and Anthonee River Cadilli passed away in 2022 at the age of 27.

Muscular Dystrophy is a group of genetic diseases that cause progressive muscle weakness and degeneration. The condition occurs when the body cannot produce proteins needed to build and maintain healthy muscle tissue. More than 30 forms of the disease exist, affecting an estimated 250,000 people in the United States. Over time, muscles weaken, which can lead to difficulty walking, breathing, and performing everyday tasks.

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, one of the most severe forms of the disease, typically begins in childhood and worsens as a person ages. Many individuals with Duchenne eventually require wheelchairs and specialized medical care as the disease progresses.

Alexander’s father, Frank Richard Cadilli, said the disease first appeared in the family when Alexander’s older brother Adrian was diagnosed around age 5. His younger brothers were later diagnosed as well.

Despite the challenges he faced throughout his life, those closest to him say Alexander maintained a positive spirit and brought laughter to those around him.

“Despite the challenges he faced, Alex endured his illness with remarkable strength and never complained,” the organizer wrote. “He filled our lives with laughter, sharing jokes for days, and brought joy through his love of movies, music, art, and especially cooking.”

Family members said Alexander loved food, animals, and spending time with loved ones. According to the GoFundMe description, he had a special ability to remember “the important dates and ages of every pet in our family.”

The fundraiser, titled “Support for Alexander Raven Cadilli’s Family,” was created to help his parents, Melissa Moraga Cadilli and Frank Richard Cadilli, cover burial expenses, medical bills, and other costs during this difficult time.

The campaign also highlights the dedication of his parents, who served as full-time caregivers for their sons.

“His parents, Ricky and Melissa, devoted their lives to caring for their boys, showing unwavering love and dedication every single day,” according to the fundraiser.

Following Alexander’s passing, the family is also facing financial hardship. His mother had been his primary caretaker and is no longer receiving income related to that care.

Frank Richard Cadilli said sharing his family’s story is also meant to raise awareness about the lack of disability resources available locally in the High Desert.

“We don’t have local resources up here for the disabled community. We had to travel to Loma Linda for almost everything. Our hospitals are under par, and we need to bring awareness locally for other families, especially all the new families that have moved out here. There’s probably a lot of families going through this locally,” he said.

Cadilli said Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy remains a devastating disease for families to face.

“And there’s no cure. I just want families to stay strong and find happiness every day, and for others to be kind to kids and adults who face challenges, especially in school,” he said.

According to the GoFundMe organizer, community donations will help ease the family’s financial burden while they grieve.

“We are reaching out to our community for support, knowing that every donation—no matter the size—will make a meaningful difference,” the organizer wrote. “Your kindness and generosity will help ease their burden and honor Alexander’s memory.”

Those wishing to support the family can donate through the fundraiser here:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-alexander-raven-cadillis-family

Alexander Raven Cadilli is remembered by loved ones for his resilience, humor, and the joy he brought to those around him.

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