Joe’s Stroke recovery.
Donation protected
My dad, Joe, is the heart and soul of our family. A dedicated father and grandfather, he spends his life giving to the people he loves. Whether it’s getting up before dawn to fix a plumbing issue for a neighbor, or dropping everything to attend one of his grandkids events, he never hesitates. My dad is the kind of man who does anything for his kids and grandkids. He makes sure we know, every single day, that family is his top priority, and that we are loved.
Joe works as a plumber, but it’s never just about fixing pipes or installing water heaters for him. It’s about helping people, making sure everyone is taken care of, and always being there for the people who matter most. His hands, worn and calloused from decades of hard work, are always ready to lend a hand. They are the hands that raise us, hold his grandchildren, and repair whatever needs to be fixed.
My dad’s life is filled with laughter, love, and the joy of having his kids and grandkids always around him. Every weekend, you can find him with us or taking his grandkids to the market, teaching them how to cook, or sitting on the porch surrounded by the sound of their voices. He builds a legacy, not of wealth, but of love and selflessness and always being there when it matters most.
On the afternoon of May 19th, while at work, my dad started feeling lightheaded. At first, he brushed it off thinking he might just be dehydrated. But as time passed, the dizziness got worse. By the time he got home he was so weak he couldn’t walk. My mom and brother had to physically help him inside. I rushed him to the hospital, and by the time we arrived at the ER, he was unable to even stand.
It was there, in the emergency room, that we received the devastating news, Dad had suffered a massive stroke.
When Dad woke up, he was in a hospital bed, unable to move his left side, unable to speak clearly, and unable to even feed himself. It was a hard reality to accept. The man who had spent his life helping others and caring for us was now the one in need of help, and it hurt him more than any physical pain ever could.
The doctors did what they could, but the prognosis wasn’t great. Half of his body was paralyzed, and his speech was slurred. The man who could fix anything with his hands, who had always been the protector and provider, now needs help with the simplest of tasks like getting dressed, eating, even shifting in bed.
As the days went by, we have all stepped up, my siblings, my mom, and me. But we each had our own families, our own lives to manage, and it hasn’t been easy. My dads always been our rock and is now relying on us for everything. The emotional, physical, and financial burden has been heavy on us.
And it’s not just the physical toll. The emotional weight is even greater. Dad is a proud man. He’s never had to depend on anyone. For as long as I can remember, he’s the one who fixes things, who takes care of everyone. Now, he has to learn how to accept help and that’s one of the hardest parts for him.
The financial strain is enormous. Dad’s stroke prevents him from working, and while we’re doing everything we can to support him, the medical bills, physical therapy, and home care costs keep piling up. We’re doing our best, but we need help.
My dad gives everything to his family. He shows up when we need him. He puts us always. Now it’s our turn to show up for him. We’re reaching out to you, our community, friends and family for support. Whether that means a financial donation, sharing Joe’s story, or sending a message of encouragement, your help means the world to us.All donations go toward medical care, physical therapy, mobility aids, and everything Dad needs to navigate this new chapter.
I know Dad would never ask for help, he’s too proud. So we’re asking for him. He’s always been there for us. Now, we need to be there for him.
Every little bit helps. No contribution is too small. If Dad has ever touched your life, helped you out, or if you believe in the power of community, we ask you to give what you can. My dad always puts family first and we’re doing everything we can to help him through this incredibly difficult time.
Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for your support, kindness, and generosity. Joe, his family, and his grandchildren are deeply grateful. Together, we can help him keep fighting and remind him that the love he’s given to so many people is still right here, lifting him up.
Please help us raise the funds Joe needs to continue his fight and rebuild the life he loves.
P.S. His granddaughter wants everyone to know he remains happy and still cracks jokes every chance
Organizer
Ashley Salazar
Organizer
San Antonio, TX