Dear family and friends

 

With much love and sadness I would like to share this tragic story of a mother’s worst nightmare and the accompanying struggles that have come thereafter.

 

On January 8, 2022 at 11:30pm on Forum Dr and Lee Hwy my son Joel "Chato" Gonzales was hit by a car as he was crossing the street, leaving work on his way home. On January 9th Chato was pronounced dead at Inova Fairfax Hospital in Falls Church Virginia from head injury.  As quickly as a blink of an eye, my life, the lives of his siblings, close family and friends where impacted. As we said our goodbyes with close family members at Fairfax hospital I could not make sense of anything occurring around me.  My son has left my home, to a new home in heaven, and I was (and still am) not  ready.    My son Joel, who was a God fearing  and giving young man that impacted many lives, even through his death. He wanted to be an organ donor so I honored his wish and I am proud to announce that through his kindness he had saved 6 lives, one including a 3 year old boy that received Joel’s kidney. I hope that one day I will meet those organ receivers who carry a part of my son.

As my feelings of pain overwhelmed my body, family and friends assisted in the burial arrangements for my son. I did not know how I was going to bury my son as I am already financially struggling but I appreciated all who had came together ready to help and support me. 

Lord knows, as a mother, I only sought to acquire the proper burial for my son. I always put my children first.  After struggling to pay off the remaining balance towards my son funeral bill my son’s grave lays with no stone since I cannot afford it.

For this reasons I have now started this GoFundMe which Christ has given me the strength to take charge of. The funds would go directly to me, Debbie Osborne, mother of Joel Chato for his headstone. 

 

Thank you to all who help me and came together during this difficult time I appreciate your love and support.   I am thankful for any help provided and may God bless you and thank you for your generosity.

 

 

Warm regards,

 

Debbie Osborne and Family