We are reaching out with humble hearts to ask for support for our beloved Leticia Torres, whose life was changed dramatically after being diagnosed with West Nile virus.
On Monday, September 15, 2025, Leticia was hospitalized and spent many weeks in a coma on a ventilator surrounded by loved ones with her husband Eleno by her side. During this time, she battled severe complications including meningitis and encephalitis, which ultimately led to hydrocephalus. Against incredible odds, Leticia has shown remarkable strength and resilience.
Today, we are grateful to share that Leticia is off the ventilator, breathing fully on her own, and has had her tracheostomy removed. She is beginning to eat independently, and we are hopeful that her feeding tube can be removed soon. Each day brings new milestones—most recently, she was able to sit upright on the edge of her bed for 20 seconds, a powerful reminder of how far she has come!
While her progress is inspiring, Leticia is still facing significant challenges. She is currently living in a skilled nursing facility and continues to experience severe paralysis that greatly limits her mobility. Although she is slowly regaining movement in her arms, transportation remains extremely difficult. Leticia has been able to leave the facility for day visits, when possible, but during her first few trips home, it became clear how unsafe and impractical it is to transfer her in and out of a standard vehicle from her wheelchair, given her current level of mobility. These challenges have made it evident that a wheelchair-accessible vehicle is not a luxury—it is a necessity for her safety, comfort, and continued connection to home, family, and community.
We are asking for financial assistance to help us find a wheelchair-friendly vehicle that will allow Leticia to travel safely to medical appointments, therapy sessions, and home visits to be with her family and friends as she continues her recovery journey. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings us one step closer to giving Leticia greater independence and dignity during this very long road of healing.
How the Funds Will Be Used:
Our goal is to raise funds to help towards the purchase a wheelchair-accessible vehicle that will allow Leticia to travel safely and comfortably. Reliable used wheelchair-accessible vehicles typically range between $35,000–$55,000, depending on mileage, condition, and the type of ramp or lift required.
Funds raised will go towards:
• The purchase of a wheelchair-accessible van or SUV
• Necessary modifications or accessibility equipment (such as a ramp, lift, or securement system)
• Registration, taxes, and related accessibility costs
Having a suitable vehicle will allow Leticia to attend medical appointments, therapy sessions, and home visits without unsafe transfers, while also giving her more independence and quality of life during recovery. Any funds raised beyond the vehicle cost will be used to support her ongoing mobility and transportation needs as she continues physical therapy and rehabilitation.
As one of Leticia’s closest friends, I’ve seen firsthand how fiercely she is fighting to recover. Every small victory means the world to us. Thank you for helping us give her the dignity, safety, and independence she deserves as she continues this long journey back to herself.
If you’re unable to donate, we ask that you please consider sharing this fundraiser and keeping Leticia in your thoughts and prayers. Your support means more than words can express. Thank you for standing with Leticia and helping her move forward—one hopeful step at a time.