Fundraiser to help Police Officer Jaime Avila

Hi, my name is Fred Lopez (brother-in-law and Chicago Police Officer ) and I am fundraising for Officer Jaime Avila of the Chicago Police Department. Officer Avila, a U.S Army Veteran, who served in the Iraq War from 2003-2004 is no stranger to hostile environments.

On July 1st, 2022 at approximately 8:27 a.m Officer Avila assisted his fellow officer on a domestic disturbance call that was anything but routine, this was an ambush. Upon exiting the elevator, Officer Avila sustained multiple gunshots that resulted in him losing 6 pints of blood. While the elevator was on its way down to the ground floor, his fellow officer, a U.S Marine immediately performed life-saving measures. Once at ground level, Officers on the scene rushed Officer Avila to Stroger hospital where he was eventually stabilized. It was later learned, that the quick application of the tourniquet by Jaime's partner and the response of the officers who rushed Officer Avila to Stroger Hospital helped save his life. 

Jaime sustained multiple gunshots that exited and traveled through his left arm. One bullet traveled through the arm to his axilla broke 2 ribs, punctured and collapsed his left lung, then exited through his upper back left side. There is nerve damage to his left arm with limited range of motion that will require ongoing medical attention. 

Jaime Avila, a devote Christian, is a father of four, 2 boys and 2 girls, and has been married to my sister for 23 years. On July, 3rd 2022 Jaime and my sister celebrated their 23-year wedding anniversary at Stroger Hospital. While the circumstances were unfortunate, they were grateful to celebrate by his hospital chair with cake and singing by the amazing Officers of the 012th district and the Officers of the Special Activities Section. They will always remember this 23rd wedding anniversary and be thankful to God and to everyone for their support.

I have known Jaime for over 25 years, he is a god-fearing family man and devoted to his Christain faith. His love for his kids, my sister, love for family is evident in his actions. His service to his country while in the Army, and community as a Chicago Police Officer veteran of 15 years, further exemplifies his calling to serve and protect.

Jaime is extremely grateful for his second chance at life and for all the amazing support. He is now focused on his long road to recovery and getting back to moving his fingers so he can get back to playing his guitar! Jaime tried playing at the hospital but could not bend his fingers, only a smile with a glimpse of hope. 

Jaime stayed at Stroger Hospital for 8 days and was just released on Saturday, July 9th, 2022. Upon his exit our brothers and sisters in blue were waiting in formation, bagpipes playing to greet Jaime and his family. I know Jaime felt immense love and support and is thankful to everyone. Thank you to his doctors, nurses, medical staff, and everyone at Stroger that helped save Jaime’s life and experience some peace and comfort. 

For our brothers and sisters in blue who have sacrificed so much to protect our city, may God protect you and give you peace.