Update from Erika and the Garcia Family:

Beni is home from Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, after a long three weeks away. He is improving every day, and can now walk independently, with a support person nearby to prevent falls. He will be starting outpatient PT and OT soon, and should be starting school back up in January, which he’s looking forward to.

We’re enjoying celebrating the holiday season as a family in our wonderful valley community. The outpouring of support has been incredible, we’re so humbled and grateful to have had this kind of response during our unexpected time of need. Thank you again; wishing everyone a happy holiday season and new year!

Hi,

my name is Melanie and I am a close friend of Erika's. As you may know, Erika and Alphonso's son, Beni (Benicio), was recently admitted to Cottage Hospital for what has been diagnosed as Acute Cerebellar Ataxia. That is a sudden inability to coordinate muscle movement due to disease or injury to the cerebellum. Beni (and Erika) had a stay at Cottage for 1.5 weeks and have been transferred to Children's Hospital of Los Angeles. They anticipate having a 2 week stay for intensive Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech work. Once Beni is cleared to go home, there will still be months of outpatient rehab and around the clock care that will need to be provided. As Erika has been with Beni at the hospital, Alphonso has taken on the role of primary caregiver for their daughter Coco and has been unable to work. The prediction is that for the rest of December and all of January, the family will be focusing on Beni and his recovery, which will likely leave Alphonso unable to work. Any money raised will go towards keeping them afloat (mortgage, bills, groceries) while they navigate a tricky situation and find their new 'groove' after Beni's diagnosis.

If you know Erika and Alphonso, you know they have kind hearts and are the first to step up to help when help is needed. Any help you could provide at this time would be greatly appreciated.