Hi, my name is Anthony Zavala, but most people call me “Z.” I’ve spent my whole life in physically demanding careers, serving my country and my community — corrections, construction, county, mental health, and the Army. I served nearly 8 years as a Correctional Officer at San Quentin on death row, doing my part for my community.

In January 2023, while helping lift an inmate who was having a medical emergency, I suffered a severe back injury that ended my career. The damage left me medically disabled with permanent nerve damage — I live with constant pain and now walk with a cane just to get around.

Since then, I’ve gone through surgery, physical therapy, multiple spinal epidermals, hip injections, chiropractic treatment (which made things worse), and even acupuncture — but nothing worked. To make matters worse, workers’ comp stopped paying me in January 2025. I’m still technically employed, even though I can’t work. That leaves me with no income.

I’m not just fighting for myself. I’m a father of three kids, including three year old twins that are special needs and a one year old, they depend on me. I’ve already lost my first home because of the financial strain, and I can’t lose the one I have now.

I’m asking for $17,000 to help cover rent and bills. This isn’t for anything extra, just enough to keep a roof over my family’s head and the lights on while I fight through this.

Every donation, no matter the size, makes a real difference. If you can’t donate, please share this page to help spread the word.

Thank you for helping me hold the line during the hardest fight of my life.

With gratitude,

Anthony “Z” Zavala