On Sunday, my son, Rodolfo Garza Jr. — known to everyone who loves him as Rudy — was critically injured by a gunshot wound to the head in the mass shooting in Austin this Sunday. In an instant, our lives changed forever.

Rudy is 21 years old and currently in critical condition in the intensive care unit, fighting for his life. He is receiving round-the-clock medical care as doctors work tirelessly to stabilize him.

Rudy is a senior at University of Texas at Austin, enrolled in the Mechanical Engineering program. He is scheduled to graduate in May 2026 — a milestone our family has prayed for and worked toward for years. As the first in our Hispanic family to pursue this path, his education represents sacrifice, resilience, and hope for a brighter future.

He is brilliant, noble, and deeply caring. Rudy has always carried himself with humility and quiet strength. He is the kind of young man who shows up for others, works hard without complaint, and treats everyone with respect. He is loved by everyone who meets him.

Now, instead of preparing for graduation and the future he worked so hard to build, he is fighting for his life.

His injuries are severe. He faces ongoing critical care, possible surgeries, and a long and uncertain recovery that will likely require extensive rehabilitation.

I am a single mother and a Nurse, I have dedicated my career to caring for patients in their most vulnerable moments. Today, I sit beside my own child’s hospital bed. In order to remain at Rudy’s side during this life-threatening emergency, I had to leave my employment. I am currently without income while medical expenses continue to grow.

The financial burden includes:

Intensive care unit expenses

Surgical and specialist care

Long-term rehabilitation and therapy

Lost wages

Basic living expenses for our family

We have been overwhelmed by the love and support from our community. In just the last day, over 100 of Rudy’s high school and college friends, along with parents and fellow students, came to the hospital with snacks, food, and heartfelt messages. Their presence has been a source of comfort and strength for both Rudy and our family during this unimaginable time. It is a testament to how many lives he has touched with his kindness and spirit.

Asking for help is not easy for our family. We were raised to work hard, stay strong, and push forward through hardship. But right now, my son is fighting for his life, and I cannot do this alone.

From the depths of a mother’s heart, thank you for standing with us during this unimaginable time.

I truly appreciate any way you are able to help — whether through prayer, sharing Rudy’s story on social media, or making a donation. Every prayer, every share, and every contribution means more to our family than words can express.

"Mi hijo Rudy es el orgullo de nuestra familia. Siempre ha luchado por sus sueños con humildad y dedicación. Hoy está luchando por su vida. Les pido que nos acompañen con sus oraciones y apoyo mientras enfrentamos esta batalla."