Help Us Support a Hero in Need: Kyoshi Dan Gonzalez, cherished father, friend, martial arts instructor, community member and unwavering warrior!

We are reaching out to rally support for a truly remarkable man — a Master Karate Instructor who has dedicated his life to teaching discipline, respect, and resilience; a devoted father who has always put family first; a proud U.S. Veteran who has served his country with honor; and a Humor for Heroes Committe Member dedicated to help and honor fellow veterans.

Today, this hero faces the critical financial burden of medical bills. He now needs us to stand by his side, after years of giving selflessly to others —in the dojo, at home, and in service to our nation.

Your support, no matter the size, will help cover urgent medical costs, treatment, and recovery efforts, and will give this warrior the strength and hope to keep fighting. Let’s come together to show that heroes are never alone.

Full History

Kyoshi Dan Gonzalez was recently diagnosed with his second bout of cancer. His first diagnosis came in the summer of 2020 in the form of Non-muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer. His survivability odds were given as 50/50 for the first five years. His medical procedures during these initial five years included three surgeries and over twenty treatments of BCG. These treatments are an immunotherapy that helps stimulate the immune system to fight cancer cells in the bladder.

Kyoshi Dan beat his bladder cancer and made it to year five. Unfortunately, there was no celebration. The five-year mark, which should have been an end to cancer, instead brought a new diagnosis of cancer. This time it was prostate cancer. So far this year, this new diagnosis has come with three surgeries and multiple procedures and scans.

Thankfully, Kyoshi Dan is now cancer-free! However, the financial burden of battling cancer for the last five years has caused a serious strain, and new medical bills keep piling in. The most recent surgery, due to complications from the surgery on May 15th, was on Father’s Day. This included a four-day stay in the hospital. Dan was fully able to financially manage the first bout of cancer on his own. Sadly, this is not the case for the second round.

This GoFundMe is more than just a fundraiser. It is a testament of hope and unity. Dan is grateful for all the doctors and nurses that have allowed him to heal and survive. He is grateful for all his students, families, and staff that have allowed the dojo to continue operating during these illnesses. He is also grateful for the angels that have already contributed to the cause.

We want to see him completely back to the things he loved, sharing with family and friends, playing music and fully recovered to be able to go back to his students at the dojo. We are deeply grateful for any amount you’re able to give as we work to ease the pain of the last five years. As you can imagine, big or small, any contribution makes a very meaningful difference.