Last Wednesday evening, November 12th, our dear friend Gil Perales suffered a sudden and unexpected stroke. Gil is now in the hospital—stable, slowly responding, and beginning what will likely be a long and uncertain road to recovery. At the moment, the full severity is still unknown, and the coming weeks will determine what his healing journey looks like.

Gil is a single father to his two sons, Delano (22) and Dario (21), who live with him and rely on him every day. They’re staying strong and hopeful, and they’re also caring for Charlie, Gil’s amazing dog who he absolutely loves with all his heart. Charlie has been waiting for his dad to come home, and the boys are doing everything they can to keep his routine and spirit intact.

If you know Gil, you know this: he is one of the friendliest, most welcoming humans on the planet. He has a way of making everyone feel like family the moment they walk into the room.

Gil is also the heart and face of Amalfi in Lake San Marcos. He spreads joy across four Amalfi venues, handling entertainment, social media, creative ideas, and ensuring every guest feels at home. He works tirelessly—7 days a week—to bring happiness to others. His presence is woven into the fabric of the San Marcos community.

Beyond Amalfi, Gil is a huge part of the Smile Spirits family, helping with events, social media, and bringing his contagious positive energy everywhere he goes.

Both companies will continue supporting Gil, his sons, and Charlie during this incredibly difficult time, but we’re asking friends, family, and the community to come together and help however they can. Funds raised will go directly toward:

• Medical bills

• Living expenses for his sons

• Care for Charlie

• Lost income during Gil’s recovery

• Long-term therapy & support

Gil has spent years uplifting everyone around him. Now it’s our turn to lift him.

Any donation—big or small—means the world. If you can’t donate, sharing this page helps more than you know.

Thank you for supporting Gil, Delano, Dario, and Charlie through these tough, unknown times.

Let’s rally around them with the same warmth and love Gil has always given to all of us.