Raymond’s Story

Raymond Gallegos, we can all agree there’s one word that defines him perfectly:  “FAMILY-MAN.”  Ray is all things that fall into the word, FAMILYMAN.  He is a man of great pride, unconditional love, and would do absolutely anything for his wife and kids.  He is the strength and center of his family, which is what makes his story so relatable to many of us.  

On December 4, 2020, Ray collapsed while at work.  He was taken by ambulance to Kern Medical Center and upon arrival, doctors informed his wife, Elia, he had suffered an intestinal burst and would need immediate surgery.  They gave him a 50/50 survival rate.  Elia was preparing herself for the unknown as best she could.  Thanks be to God, the surgery was successful, but afterward Ray was placed into a “medical-induced coma” (the purpose of a medically induced coma is to quiet the brain, this gives the brain vital time to rest and heal.  This type of coma keeps the brain unaware of and unable to feel or respond to pain; which is what he needed at the time).   Ray remained in the induced coma for 3 days that first week.  And, on December 12th, he was taken off the ventilator with hope he would have the ability to breathe on his own.  Unfortunately, that didn’t happen and was placed back on the ventilator into the coma again where he remained that way for 10-12 days.  Slowly,  over the next couple weeks he began to show signs of improvement and  taken off the ventilator.  He began to breathe on his own, opened his eyes, had movement in his fingers and toes, then taken out of ICU, he even got the strength to call his wife Elia to tell her, “I love you, I’m not gonna die babe and keep our dog Red by your side.”  This was a very good sign, a sign of HOPE for Elia and their family.   Once again, here came another setback on December 27, 2020.   Ray was placed back into ICU and doctors scheduled another emergency surgery (this was the 8th surgery) setup for December 30, 2020. His blood pressure was dropping rapidly and time was of the essence.  Doctors have yet to contact Elia on the outcome of this last surgery (2 days ago).  

Waiting in prayer is what this has become for Raymond and his family.  Waiting for doctors to update Elia on the status of his medical condition.  Waiting to see or talk to him to tell him everything is going to be okay.  Waiting to say I LOVE YOU BABE.  Waiting for time, asking God to give
them more time.  

Ray entered the hospital on 12/4/20 and today is 1/1/2021.  He has now been hospitalized for 25 days.  Ray asked Elia to tell everyone thank you for the love and prayers.  Elia has received many phone calls, messages of love and support, continuous prayers, as they wait for answers hoping Raymond can come home soon to his family.

Many people have asked how they can help.  As many of you know, this road is very rough and every day really is living on a prayer.  The best way to help and take a small burden off of Ray’s worry is to try and ease the financial burden that has come so unexpectedly.  This GOFUNDME account got started for that reason, to help the family with medical expenses and to give them hope and love from all of us.   To help ease the pain just a little.  We thank you in advance as every donation is greatly appreciated.  Let’s all give back to our brother who needs continuous prayer, love, and support, we all want to see him heal and recover. 

Thank you all so much and God Bless.