Hi everyone, we’re raising funds to support Jesse Castillo as he fights through a serious and unexpected medical emergency and begins a long recovery process.

For the last couple of months, Jesse was battling what he believed were recurring “flare ups” from diverticulitis—despite following a strict diet, strong habits, and prioritizing his health over the last two years. He repeatedly asked for further testing because he knew something wasn’t right. A painful bulge on the lower left side of his abdomen kept growing, and it was treated as diverticulitis.

Not knowing the whole time, Jesse’s colon had burst and infection was spreading. When he finally went to the ER, a CT scan revealed a severe infection and abscess, and he was immediately prepped for major surgery. The surgeon removed part of his colon, abdominal muscle, and the abscess, leaving a hole in his stomach.

We’re incredibly thankful Jesse made it to the ER when he did, and grateful for the care team at St. Luke’s who acted quickly to save his life. Now, the focus is healing—and the financial burden is heavy. Jesse will need wound vac therapy at home for several weeks, follow-up appointments, and ongoing care.

Jesse has always shown up for others. Even in pain and preparing for surgery, he was thinking about his players and the people he serves. Now it’s our turn to show up for our coach, mentor, coworker, friend, and brother.

Based on current estimates from the hospital and care team, Jesse’s out-of-pocket expenses are expected to include:

• Hospital stay & emergency surgery: $25,000–$35,000 (after insurance)

• Wound care & wound-vac therapy (3–4 weeks): $5,000–$10,000

• Follow-up care, imaging, and medications: $2,000–$5,000

• Physical therapy & recovery support: $3,000–$7,000

• Lost income & basic living expenses during recovery: variable

These estimates may change as Jesse’s recovery continues, but they reflect the significant financial burden his family is facing.

How You Can Help

• Donate, if you are able — every contribution, no matter the amount, helps ease the burden of medical and recovery costs.

• Share this page with friends, family, and community members to help spread the word.

• Lift Jesse and his family up in prayer as he continues this long journey of healing.

• Give back through service — one of the greatest ways to honor Jesse is by continuing to show up for this community. Volunteer your time to support local youth, teams, families, or community efforts in ways that reflect the values Jesse has lived out for decades.

Your support—whether financial, spiritual, or through service—means more than words can express. Thank you for standing with Jesse and helping carry forward the spirit of giving he has shared with so many.