Las Cruces Alma’s Kitchen owner diagnosed with stage 4 colon, stomach cancer

LAS CRUCES, N.M. (KVIA) – New Mexico State University business Alma's Kitchen owner, Arik Ruiz, recently received a stage four stomach and colon cancer diagnosis.

Ruiz made his name known in the Las Cruces community through his strong support for local businesses, student employees and dedication to NMSU's Latin American programs.

In a social media post over the weekend, he shared the news about his diagnosis and asked for help from the community that keeps him strong.

"Hey guys, it's Arik. I have some hard news. Unfortunately I was diagnosed with stage 5 stomach and colon cancer. It is unexpected and really upsetting but I'm going to fight ok? I need prayers and encouraging words. You have all been really great friends and I care so much about you. Please visit us in Alma's Kitchen. We are open, my staff is the best. Please continue supporting us. I love you all, I am going to be strong."

In just a couple days, Ruiz has raised more than $30,000 of a $100,000 goal through a GoFundMe.

Monday, his family shared a statement on social media:

"First of all, THANK YOU!!! Thank you to everyone who has joined in prayer, and provided financial and emotional support to help navigate this incredibly difficult situation. Those who know Arik know that he is someone who never gives up. He fights for whatever he sets his mind to. Today, he is ready to defeat cancer. He is teaching us so many things, most importantly: NEVER GIVE UP."

His sister, Edith, shared this statement on social media:

"...The journey ahead is long, but he, along with all of us who want to walk this path with him, is fully determined to overcome this, and I know we will! I don't need to tell you who Arik is; no single word could define him. We all know he is a wonderful friend, brother, son, boss, mentor, and a truly selfless person. Above all, he is someone always ready to help others. He is certain that God has a purpose for him, and through his actions, he has shared God's work with his entire community!!"

His brother, Angel, shared this statement on social media:

"I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported my brother Arik through donations, messages, prayers, and good wishes. Believe me, in situations like this, every bit helps. Unfortunately, cancer doesn't just affect physical health; it takes an emotional toll and completely destabilizes a family's financial situation.

When you are facing an illness like this, you realize that no matter how much you want to do everything possible, often the funds simply aren't enough to cover everything that is needed.

The care Arik requires is not available locally, so he will hopefully be transferred to a specialized cancer hospital in Houston very soon. It is a difficult path, filled with uncertainty, yet also with hope. I have faith that all this effort will be worth it and that my brother will emerge victorious from this battle.

Today, I ask that we continue to support causes like this. Today it is for Arik; tomorrow, it could be for someone else. We never know when we or someone we love might need the help of others.

If I have learned anything from this experience, it is that even a small gesture can mean the world to a family going through one of the most challenging times of their lives.

I also want to take this opportunity to share an important reminder: please take core of yourselves, keep up with your medical check-ups, and never ignore any signals Prevention and timely medical attention can make a world of difference.

Thank you for so much affection, for your prayers, for every donation, and for being there in one way or another. There are no words to fully express my gratitude for everything you are doing for Arik and our family.

May God multiply every gesture of affection, every good intention, and every bit of help you have extended to us. May you never lack health, love, or a helping hand when you need one.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed what they could; behind every donation lies a gesture of love, solidarity, and hope for our family.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for helping us continue the fight for Arik."

ABC-7 will speak to Ruiz, his friends and family about the impact he has made on the community.