Helping a Chick-fil-A Family, One Cookie at a Time
Iliana and Marlon.
Life hasn’t been easy for Iliana and her husband Marlon. Their story is one of endurance, unwavering faith, and love in the face of overwhelming challenges. Now, after a recent kidney transplant, they need our help. Through our Chick-fil-A cookie fundraiser, we’re coming together as a community to support a beloved team member and her family during their time of need.
A Lifelong Battle with Health—And Unshakable Faith
Marlon’s health struggles began at just 16 after a traumatic car accident cost him one of his kidneys. He later received a life-saving transplant at 24—but the journey didn’t end there. Years later, the very medication designed to protect his kidney triggered a devastating leukemia diagnosis.
Chemotherapy took a heavy toll. Marlon suffered fluid in his lungs, multiple strokes, heart attacks, and the eventual failure of his transplanted kidney. On dialysis and told he was no longer eligible for another transplant, hope began to fade—until last month, when a miracle happened.
A match became available. Marlon was first on the list, and against all odds, he received a new kidney. Today, he’s in the early stages of recovery, and though the road ahead is long, it’s one filled with hope.
Iliana working with waffle fries in the kitchen.
Iliana: Wife, Mother & Caregiver
While Marlon fought for his life, Iliana became his rock. She worked long hours in the Chick-fil-A kitchen, only to return home and take on the role of caregiver. She administered his dialysis, managed his medications, and handled endless hospital visits—all while holding their family together. She juggled it all while raising their four children, including their youngest son, just 10 years old, and their three older daughters who are currently navigating high school and college.
Iliana has never once wavered in her belief that God would carry them through the hardest times, and her faith has been a steady beacon in their home. She has always made her family’s well-being her priority, often at the expense of her own needs.
Marlon and Iliana’s children have also played an important role in their journey. Even as young adults, they have stepped up to help with household responsibilities and medical costs. They’ve given what little they can from their part-time jobs, knowing that every penny counts.
As a family, they have sacrificed so much, missing out on the simple joys many take for granted—going to the park, gathering with friends, and living without the constant weight of illness or financial instability looming over them.
Marlon & Illiana and their children
An opportunity to help make a difference
Despite his failing health over the years, Marlon continued to work as a forklift driver to support their family. But after this most recent transplant, doctors have made it clear: Marlon cannot work for at least six months.
As Marlon recovers from his latest surgery, we have an opportunity to support this incredible family. We are raising funds through cookie sales from our restaurant, on Friday, April 11, 2025, to help them cover their expenses during this difficult time. Every cookie sold is a step toward easing their burden, allowing them to focus on healing and rebuilding their lives.
Your support means the world to them. Let’s come together as a community and help Iliana and Marlon find the light at the end of this long, difficult journey.
Buy a cookie.
Make a difference.
Be a part of their story.
How You Can Contribute:
Buy a Cookie: Each cookie purchase goes directly to support Marlon and Iliana’s medical and household expenses.
Please note that this only applies to cookies sold at Chick-fil-A Park Blvd. at 6408 W Plano Pkwy., Plano, TX 75093. All cookies must be purchased on April 11, 2025.
Share Their Story and the Cookie Drive: Help spread the word by sharing Marlon and Iliana’s journey with others. Every share is a step toward bringing them the help they need.