On Thursday, May 2, longtime community activist and father of 4, Christopher Dińo suffered a stroke.

The stroke was mild but it was enough to require him to be transported to Northwestern’s ICU. It was enough to affect his speech and eyesight and for him to be transported back up north to begin to learn to walk again. It was enough for him to require months of physical therapy.

Those who know Chris know how difficult this must be. As a martial arts teacher who brings the art of Kali-Escrima to communities, he’s become a cultural worker and steward.  He is a member of spiritual communities and community organizing communities.  He’s worked with at-risk youth in their communities to facilitate experiences and self-empowerment for them. 

His life partner, Je, also works in the community as a teacher, as a board member of the Theater of the Oppressed, and as a graduate student devoted to recovering indigenous Filipino culture.

They’ve both done so much to support their/our communities over the years,  without ever asking for anything in return.  This is our chance to support them. Chris’s mounting hospital bills will undoubtedly become a burden to their family, and we can help relieve some of that through this campaign.

Please consider giving what you can to help Chris heal and get back to work. Anything is welcome and every little bit counts!