#CamposStrong

As many of you know, on January 2nd Pilar Gonzalez received some of the scariest news imaginable. After months of doctors visits for stomach pain, digestive issues and weight loss, the doctors called and told Pilar that she had stomach cancer. Pilar was abruptly thrown into a world of doctors visits, procedures, and all of the fear that comes along with it.

Pilar is one of the most beautiful people I have ever met. She is full of love for everyone around her and will go to great depths to help anyone who needs it. A few years ago, five young children in our community were abruptly put into the foster system. The children, siblings, were left without a family and without a home. Pilar stepped up and took in all five children so they could stay together. During that time, her husband Javier was forced to leave the country in an attempt to obtain his citizenship. Pilar was left to care for the children as well as her own two children by herself. She never complained. She was always kind, patient and affectionate. This is just one of many examples of how selfless and strong Pilar is.

For those of you who may not know Pilar, please let me tell you a little bit about her. She is married to Javier Gonzalez and together they have three amazing kids. Javier Jr. is 13, Koraima is 8 and Perlita is 3. Pilar’s kids are the light of her life! Pilar is a kindergarten teacher. She also teaches religious education classes at her church and volunteers with the Spanish Committee. Her best friend is her sister Erica and Pilar is like a second mom to Erica’s four kids.

The reason we are setting up this GoFundMe is to help relieve some of the financial burden of diagnosis, treatment and all the procedures and costs that go with it. Already, Pilar has had to undergo two endoscopies each of which cost her $1000.00 out of pocket. Next week she will have two more surgical procedures and then will start chemo. To add to the financial strain, Pilar will need to miss work so will not have her normal income.

Pilar has enough to worry about without having to worry about finances. I truly believe that the less stress a person has to bear, the better their body is able to heal. Pilar has offered support to so many people around her, it is our turn to support her and her family in their time of need. Please donate, even if it is a small amount. And if you are unable to help financially, please say a prayer for Pilar and her family. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you!

 Isaiah 40:31 “but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”