Hi,

My name is Julia and I am raising money to help a dear coworker and friend, Federico Galicia Vásquez. Federico came to the United States from Guatemala and had to leave behind his wife María, daughter Beyrin (11) and son Elvis (9). He last saw them 4 years ago and planned to return home after 5 years, once he had saved enough money to make a prosperous life for his family in Central America. His time here has come to an end a year early and he will be traveling back home on February 24th to be with his family. Though he is beyond thrilled to see his family he is also returning prematurely because his wife is quite ill with stomach cancer. A lot of the money he saved while working in the States will now be reallocated to help with treatment for Mária's cancer and pay for his travels back. To lessen the hardship of these new bills, and with much interest from those that know him, we wanted to find a way to help with these expenses. If you feel inclined to donate, any little bit would be greatly appreciated.

*Picture of Mária, Federico's wife

Federico is so humble and hard-working that he would never solicit or ask for help but rather do a job to earn this money, however with time running out before his departure, this site was created in hopes of surprising him with an extra cushion to help finance the care his wife will need and to better their lives in Guatemala.

*Picture of Federico scaling the trees

Federico works directly with Luis Ibarra Landscaping and alongside me, in many of the gardens I manage with Yellow Petal so that he can fill his 7-day work week. Much of the time you will find Federico as the lead on all things construction as well as project managing the crew when Luis is not in the field and always wearing a smile from ear to ear. We became quick friends when I found out his children were the same gender and age as mine and I would practice my Spanish while he would practice English but he quickly surpassed me and is fluent in both.

*Picture of Federico's children, Beyrin & Elvis

He will sorely be missed and we hope his future with his family is prosperous and healing. Please feel free to contact me with any questions and with the logistics of his citizenship, I will be collecting the money on behalf of Federico and forwarding the money to him by check.

Many heartfelt thanks for your support and blessings,

Julia Nocon

(friend & co-worker)