"It was a real shit show," is exactly how Aucencio's wife, Claudia, starts our conversation when I asked her about what happened to land Aucencio in the hospital. It was just a couple of days before we spoke that Claudia texted us to let us know that Aucencio was in the hospital, that he had had a stroke, and would possibly need surgery.

 

Unbeknownst to us, Aucencio was in the hospital for the second time in 24 hours. After an initial complaint of illness, the morning of a seemingly normal day off, Aucencio called Claudia at work to tell her that he was so sick that he would have to go to the hospital. Claudia arrived home within minutes of the ambulance. The EMTs did what they do & finally transported him to the hospital. After being there for 3.5hrs, the nurses reported that there really wasn't anything wrong. They sent Aucencio home.

 

Over the course of the next several hours, Aucencio became sicker, and after much prodding by his family, because by now his mother and father were there, he agreed to go back to the hospital. It was at another hospital where he was quickly diagnosed. The medical professionals went into action, managing to stabilize him and perform the needed surgery. Aucencio is now stable and the prognosis is good, although his recovery will be protracted. During this time, Aucencio will not be able to return to work.

 

Those of you who know Aucencio, know that he has always had a dream of selling the premium of the premium automobiles. After his long career with McDonald Volvo, Aucencio recently went to work for Mike Ward Automotive, Luxury Vehicles in Colorado. He, by all accounts (you know the ones that count - income), was doing a great job! He hit his sales goals right away. With this medical event, though, Aucencio will not be able to work. This will greatly impact finances in the Martinez household. Claudia told us that her employer (City of Greenwood Village) has been super supportive and that she will be able to take emergency family leave (paid at 100% with the city manager's approval). Claudia’s pay will not be impacted, effectively giving Claudia the freedom to be at home and assist Aucencio. She gives her employer high marks for their ability to support her and her family during this time. Because Aucencio had recently started with a new employer, he will not be eligible for family leave.

 

Now, here we are asking you to support our family, long-time friends, and colleagues. Claudia told us that she is anticipating "the long game," and expects that during Aucencio's recovery times will be tough. She knows that there are always unexpected expenses, and especially with two emergency trips to the hospital, and the loss of Aucencio’s income, the family’s financial situation will weigh on her mind.

 

Let’s come together and help Aucencio, Claudia, and their family, so that they can breathe easily while Aucencio is home in recovery. Any amount would help these great folks out & make Aucencio's recovery that much smoother!

For additional information about this fundraiser:

My name is Chayne. Dennis Schoenfelder & I are partners. Some of you may know Dennis as the Cross Country & Track & Field Coach from Center High School. He started the Cross Country program there, and Aucencio was his first "star" runner. Claudia (Aucencio's wife) asked us to help her with this fundraiser while she was busy attending to Aucencio while he has been recovering from a stroke.

Dennis & I live in Alamosa. Dennis taught & coached in Center for 30 years.

Because Aucencio just started a new job in January, he was not covered by medical leave. These funds will help pay household and medical bills.