On June 22, while visiting family in El Paso, TX, Carlos Gonzalez was admitted to the Emergency Room for acute liver failure, fluid in his lungs, and abnormalities in his heart.  It was quickly discovered that the blood in his system was infected, requiring dialysis, and he would need open heart surgery to replace failing valves and arteries. 

On Wednesday, June 27, Carlos underwent open heart surgery at the University Medical Center of El Paso.  While he showed the normal signs of recovery early on Thursday, June 28, Carlos experienced cardiac failure multiple times requiring the medical team to shock his heart.  It was clear that Carlos's heart was incapable of beating on it's own and required an Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) machine to perform the work.  Due to the specialized treatment of this machine, on Saturday, June 30, Carlos was air vacced to Dallas UT Southwestern Medical Center for treatment and observation.  He immediately underwent surgery to connect the ECMO, and was released to the ICU.  Since Saturday, Carlos has had two arrhythmic episodes in Dallas, requiring physicians to prolong the use of the ECMO.  Thankfully, his other organs and blood draws have shown improvement, and Carlos has been responding to family with hand squeezes and nods.  

Physicians are indicating that due to the weakness of Carlos's heart, and other organs, he may be admitted to the hospital for up to 3 months for observation.  Physical therapy will follow to help strengthen his body.  

Carlos is the father of three beautiful girls, Kaylee (10), Lucy (7), and Aubree (6).  The lights of his life!   

Please help Carlos and his family during this difficult time.  The funds raised through this campaign are to help pay for his expenses during the time of recovery and therapy.  Thoughts and prayers are welcomed for Carlos and his family.  Thank you for your consideration!