Help My Dad Walk Again—Support Rafael's Critical Surgery"

Hi everyone, my name is Jason Ortega and I’m reaching out on behalf of my father, Rafael Ortega.

My dad is 59 years old and has always been the backbone of our family. A proud, hardworking man, he has spent decades working in gardening and landscaping to support me and my five siblings. His dedication, strength, and love have shaped who we are today. He is truly our role model—someone who never complained and always did whatever it took to give us a better life.

Unfortunately, the years of physical labor have taken a severe toll on his body. My father has lost nearly all the cartilage in his knees and is now living with bone-on-bone contact. Every step he takes is painful. He’s embarrassed about the way he walks and tries to hide it, but we see his suffering every day. The only solution is surgery.

On May 6, 2025, we received heartbreaking news. His provider informed us that because of a past heart attack in 2004, he is considered high-risk for surgery. There is a possibility he could suffer a heart attack during or after the procedure. As a family, this is incredibly painful to hear. We know how much he needs this surgery—not just for physical relief but to regain his confidence and quality of life.

We’re asking for your support to help cover the costs related to his surgery, recovery, and any additional medical care he may need. Every donation, no matter the size, will bring us one step closer to giving our father the relief he has more than earned.

If you’re unable to donate, we ask that you please share this campaign with others. Your support means the world to our family.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

—The Ortega Family