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Smoke Chicken Dinner Fundraiser for 7 year old Cancer victim
Community Rallies for Young Cancer Patient
At a recent outdoor cookout fundraiser event in Franklin Park, two young boys shared a moment that left a lasting impression on everyone present. Israel Gutierrez, 8 and Romeo Pena met for the first time at the event, organized by family friend Elizabeth Love-Tovar, and quickly became friends. As their families watched them talk and laugh, they were reminded of the bittersweet reality that brought these two children together.
The event was held to support Israel, who has been battling Glioblastoma, a rare brain cancer since he has 4 years old. Despite enduring multiple surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation, Israel has shown remarkable resilience, inspiring his parents, Jose Luis and Itzel, even as they face over $260,000 in medical debt.
Upon hearing Israel’s story from his mother, Romeo decided to donate his own savings to help. Only an hour after meeting, Romeo returned to the event with his heartfelt contribution. The Gutierrez family was deeply touched by this act of generosity.
Originally from Indiana, the Gutierrez family relocated to Austin in August to seek new medical options for Israel after doctors at his former hospital had exhausted all treatments. Supported by his family members, the family found care at Dell Children's Blood & Cancer Center. Though the prognosis remains difficult, the family is committed to making Israel’s remaining time as meaningful as possible.
Israel dreams of baking cookies, decorating pumpkins, watching movies, and drawing pictures of his favorite things, including Jesus and tigers.
To support Israel and his family, another fundraiser will be help on December 7th starting at 12 pm at the South Austin Church, 6711 Menchaca Rd. The fundraiser will be a Smoked Chicken dinner for $12 per plate.
His family has also set up a GoFundMe page to help cover healthcare and living expenses:
https://gofund.me/b608a443
For more information, please contact Israel’s Aunt Macarena at [email protected]
