The Ochoa Family's ALS Journey

The Ochoa Family's Journey: A Battle Against ALS

Three years ago, Gera Ochoa, a dedicated firefighter with the LA City Fire Department, was injured on the job. What began as a routine injury soon turned into a medical journey that no one could have predicted. After initial tests revealed a pinched nerve in his spine, surgery was scheduled for September of 2022. But as time passed, Gera’s condition didn’t improve. Instead, it worsened.

As Gera’s pain and symptoms grew more severe, Anna, his wife of 18 years, began to wonder if there was something more to his condition. During their ongoing medical consultations, Anna asked doctors if it could be ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), but the answer was always no. With each passing month, Gera’s symptoms continued to deteriorate, and after another year of waiting and several unsuccessful surgeries, the doctors finally diagnosed Gera with ALS.

What Is ALS?

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a rare and terminal neurodegenerative disorder. ALS causes the progressive loss of motor neurons, the cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movements. As the disease advances, patients lose the ability to speak, eat, move, and eventually breathe. Symptoms often begin with muscle weakness, stiffness, and twitching, and can progress quickly.

While ALS affects each person differently, one thing remains constant: it is a battle that no family should face alone. For Anna and Gera, this diagnosis marked the beginning of an intense and heartbreaking journey.

A Family’s Relentless Fight

As a wife, mother, and caretaker, Anna has shown incredible resilience. Without assistance from medical professionals, she tirelessly searched for answers, taking Gera to ALS specialists in the hopes of finding a treatment that could ease his suffering. Going through their life savings, Anna made the brave decision to take Gera to Canada for three months to seek treatment—an effort that speaks to her unwavering love and dedication.

Gera’s story is not just about the physical and emotional toll of ALS—it’s about a family’s determination to support one another through the toughest of times. Gera, who has always been there for his mother after the loss of his father, has been a pillar of strength for his own family and community. Alongside Anna, they’ve spent years helping others, both locally and within their careers. Gera served the LA City Fire Department for decades, and Anna has dedicated her life to helping children and families, particularly in Latino communities through her work at Para Los Niños and her private practice.

Together, they’ve touched the lives of many, and now it’s our turn to support them in their time of need.

How You Can Help

The Ochoa family’s financial burdens have increased drastically over the past few years as they’ve navigated Gera’s diagnosis and treatment. Donations will go directly toward Gera’s continued care, as well as the mounting medical expenses that have become an ongoing challenge.

If you are able, please consider making a contribution to help Anna and Gera during this difficult time. No amount is too small, and every bit of support—from donations to prayers—will make a difference.

Gera, Anna, and their two daughters, Sophia (16) and Isabella (14), are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of love, support, and prayers from their family, friends, and community. Together, we can make a difference in their lives as they continue to navigate this journey with strength, courage, and hope.