- A
- J
- J
- Carlos and I are reaching out in light of a horrific incident that befell our family. In the early morning hours of September 4, 2025, tragedy struck Carlos' family home. His sister Veronica awoke to the smell of smoke. She got up, opened her bedroom door, and was greeted with smoke and heat in a wave to her face. She quickly turned to her parents' bedroom to wake them. They all attempted to leave the home through the front door but were blocked by thick, black smoke, heat, and flames. They attempted to escape through a window. Thankfully, Veronica and Maria made it safely out. Once out of the house, they realized Dad, Herbert, was no longer with them. Emergency services were called, frantic calls made to family, all of us fearing the worst. The Peoria Fire Dept and EMS were there in minutes. They found Herb in the home, unresponsive, and got him out. He was resuscitated and taken to the hospital, but still unresponsive. He was assessed, stabilized as much as possible, and then transferred to Valleywise Medical Center, Burn Unit. He sustained mostly 2nd-degree burns to the face, hands, and feet. But the main concern is his airway, which is covered in soot and also sustained burns causing severe inflammation. He is in the Burn ICU, on a ventilator as he is unable to breathe on his own. He will remain heavily sedated, on the ventilator, and 100% O2 with an NG tube for a minimum of 48 hours. We are beyond grateful to the fire dept and medical staff for saving his life and continuing to do so, and keeping him as comfortable as possible while he heals. However, none of what happens will be without cost. My mother and sister-in-law are without a home, clothes, car, purse, ID, pretty much everything.
- Carlos and I are asking for help in any way possible. If you're able to donate financially, we are incredibly thankful, and if not, we'll be incredibly thankful for your prayer, good thoughts, or vibes for Herb to recover and heal quickly and without complications. Anything you can do to help us at this time is appreciated.