Jesse Gutierrez and his wife, Mercedes Quichocho, are a young family from Porterville, CA. Jesse serves as a police officer for the City of Porterville, and last year the family celebrated two joyful milestones. Purchasing their first home and welcoming their second son, baby Elio.

In November, their lives changed forever. At only four months old, Elio developed a high fever and began vomiting. After rushing him to the hospital, doctors discovered a tumor the size of a softball pressing on his brain. Emergency surgery was required, but during the operation the tumor ruptured, causing a stroke and severe brain stem damage. The tumor was later confirmed to be cancerous.

Elio was transferred to a specialist hospital in the Bay Area, where Jesse and Mercedes remained by his side through months of critical care and treatment. During this time, the family faced significant emotional and financial strain while focusing entirely on their son.

Tragically, baby Elio has passed away. In his short life, he was deeply loved and brought immense joy to his family, including his big brother, JJ.

This fundraiser has been created to help the Gutierrez family with the financial burdens from medical expenses, time away from work, and other unexpected expenses during this heartbreaking time.

Any support, prayers, or shares are deeply appreciated as the family navigates this unimaginable loss. Elio will always be loved and remembered.