A Warrior’s Journey: Love & Light for Irma

My name is Christopher Gurrola, and I’m the proud son of Irma Benitez. I created this GoFundMe because my mom—my heart, my compass, my inspiration—is in the biggest fight of her life. She has been diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer in her lungs and liver, on top of having lived for many years with pulmonary lung disease. Despite all the physical pain and emotional exhaustion, she continues to show up every day with strength, love, and selflessness. I’ve always known my mom to be someone who gives everything of herself and never asks for anything in return. When I was in college, I made a candle with a sticker that said “Santa Irma” because that’s how I’ve always seen her—our family’s saint. She’s loved deeply by everyone who’s ever met her. When she was discharged from the hospital and came home, I thought I was prepared for the challenge ahead. I wasn’t. It’s been so much more work than I ever expected—physically, emotionally, financially. But I do it all with love and gratitude because she deserves nothing less. My mom the other day said, I’m sorry if I’m a burden on you” in her native language: Spanish. I then said mom, “ like you have supported me my whole life, it’s the least I can do.” We are now exploring a new treatment path that begins with a detailed consultation and leads into a non-intrusive care plan designed to support her healing without adding more strain to her body. The in person diagnosis is this upcoming Tuesday. It’s a hopeful and holistic approach that may offer her greater comfort, improved quality of life, and possibly more time. I created this fundraiser out of hope—hope that others who know her, or simply understand what it means to fight for someone you love, someone who has always been a good heart. The funds raised will go toward her care, healing routines, nutritional support/treatment, and anything that brings her strength and peace during this chapter. If you know of any treatment or medical advice that could help her, please reach out. I truly believe that in this day and age, there is something out there that can help her improve, heal, or gain precious time. Thank you for your support, your prayers, and your belief in the strength of love. With all my heart, Christopher Gurrola