Rays of Light for Ray and Elijah

Hi, my name is Mercedez Surita.  I write to you on behalf of my brother Ray and nephew Elijah pictured above with his wife Ivette and daughters Monica and Mya.  

My brother Ray married his best friend 25 years ago.  Out of that marriage came three beautiful children.  I remember after the second daughter came, he said to me "I'm out numbered, I need a son before these women kill me".  He's a funny guy!  Of course, baby number three came and Ray had his wish.  Days after my nephew was born, the doctors realized Elijah needed a heart valve replaced.  The surgery was performed within a short period of time.  As the years went by, Elijah has needed other procedures to replace the valve initially installed.  Doctors have always known he'd eventually need open heart surgery to permanently correct the valve.  The goal has been to wait for adulthood however, it has become medically necessary to have the surgery sooner.  He's a 17 year old senior in High School.  As you might image, he's afraid.  No kid should have to go through this.  

If matters couldn't be any worse, my brother has been diagnosed with COPD and Pulmonary Fibrosis (his dad).  He's in need of a lung transplant.  As he struggles to breath, I find myself afraid for him and for his son who very much needs him.  His wife as you can imagine is overwhelmed with the reality of what the future holds.  She's the only one in the house who's working.  My two adult nieces are in the Navy.  They send home as much as they can but the reality is, it's not enough.  This family has always stuck together and they are fighting together.  However, the medical expenses continue to rise and the cost of the transplant once all of the testing is completed will not be fully covered.  Once my nephews surgery is scheduled, Ivette will have to stay at home to care for her husband and son.  She has been a true blessing to my family and I want to use any venue I can to help get my brother and nephew through this.  

On behalf of my family, I'd like to say thank you for taking the time to open this GoFundMe link.  Whether you're part of the family or a stranger our hearts unite us.  Anything you can give is well received.  A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.  Please feel free to share this link.  My family and I are eternally grateful to you.  

With love,

The Surita/Hurtado Family