Help the Flores Family Honor David’s Life and Legacy

My father, David Flores, is known as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, coach, mentor, and friend. He has touched countless lives with his kindness, strength, and selflessness.

For the past nine years, he has fought a courageous battle with Stage Four Clear Cell Renal Carcinoma. Despite surgeries, radiation, chemotherapy, and numerous hospital stays, he remained determined, resilient, and hopeful.

The journey has been incredibly difficult, but he always remained positive. He is known by his doctors and medical team as the “Urban Legend” because he never stopped smiling, never stopped fighting and never missed a moment to uplift those around him.

My father has always been a pillar of strength for his family and community. Now, in this most difficult moment, the Flores family needs support. Funds raised will go toward:

• Medical expenses from the extensive treatments and hospitalizations.

• Funeral and memorial costs as we prepare to honor his life.

HIS MEDICAL HISTORY AND JOURNEY:

• 2017: Underwent surgery at UCSF to remove a baseball-sized tumor, kidney, and adrenal gland. Began immunotherapy and chemotherapy.

• 2017–2021: Fought in and out of remission, continuing to show strength and inspire those around him.

• September 2022: Had surgery to remove his remaining adrenal gland, leading to lifelong adrenal insufficiency.

• 2023–2025: Suffered multiple adrenal crises, requiring emergency care.

• May 2025: Developed severe heart issues and underwent placement of an ICD pacemaker/defibrillator. Shortly after, doctors discovered a rare tumor inside his heart. He endured radiation and additional chemotherapy.

• September 2025: Hospitalized with pneumonia, later diagnosed with Valley Fever. On September 20, 2025, he was placed on a respirator. Despite every effort, his doctors have explained there are no remaining treatment options. The family is preparing to say their final goodbyes.

A LIFE OF SERVICE AND LOVE

Besides always being there for his family , friends and colleagues, my Dad gave back to his community in extraordinary ways:

• Served 12 years as President of the North Monterey County High School Linebacker Club (2007–2018), raising funds for student-athletes.

• Linebacker Coach for the North Monterey County High School Football Team.

• Supported the band boosters and dance company, always cheering on the kids of the community.

• A mentor and role model to countless young men, guiding them with wisdom and heart.

• In 2019, he went back to school and earned his GED, encouraging others in his class to reach their goals.

• Participated in Watsonville Relay for Life in 2020 and 2023, raising awareness and funds for cancer research.

His greatest joy has always been his family:

• His wife and partner of 35 years, Hermilia “Millie” Valdivias.

• Their children: Steven (32) and Alyssa (28), and Daughter-in-law: Zaira Esparza.

• Four beloved grandchildren: Amelia Rae (6), Alina Jane (3), Amerie Mel (1 ½), and Dominic Levi (3 months).

Any amount, no matter how small, will make a difference. Please also consider sharing this fundraiser with others who knew my father, or anyone who may be touched by his story.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing with the Flores family. His legacy will live on in the love he gave, the lives he touched, and the generations of youth he inspired.

“A good coach can change a game. A great coach can change a life.” David Flores did both — and so much more.