Emily Progin, Content Manager
eprogin@helphopelive.org / 800.642.8399
COMMUNITY RALLYING TO HELP 35-YEAR-OLD DOUBLE AMPUTEE
80s Dance & Dinner and Online Fundraising to Help Tommy Gonzalez
VINELAND, N.J.—On November 23, 2023, 35-year-old Tommy Gonzalez’s life changed forever. Following a car accident, both of his legs were amputated. In addition to online donations, a June 29 “80s Dance and Dinner” fundraiser will provide help to Tommy and his family through the trusted nonprofit Help Hope Live.
80s Dance and Dinner Fundraiser
When: Saturday, June 29 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: North Italy Hall at 414 Virano Lane, Vineland, NJ 08360
What: 80s Dance and Dinner fundraiser with live music, raffles, 50/50, and more.
Cost: $55. Register at https://events.helphopelive.org/event/6103/signup/
Sponsor: Sponsorships are available at $100 to $1000 levels.
Flyer: Click here
Contact: Al Gonzalez at 856-305-3003 or algang@comcast.net or Maritza Rodriguez at 856-305-3004 or mgonzalez.landis@gmail.com
Donate: Can’t make it? Tax-deductible donations can be made online any time at: https://helphopelive.org/campaign/23235/
Tommy’s Story
Tommy faced intensive medical recovery after the devastating Thanksgiving car accident, including three months of inpatient hospitalization. His above-the-knee double amputation has required wound care, pain management, and specialty prosthesis and mobility equipment as well as intensive rehabilitation.
“Tommy has been strong through this whole process,” explained Crysta Gonzalez, Tommy’s sister. “It has challenged his mental fortitude, but he is remaining strong, hopeful, and loved.”
Crysta shared the good news in February 2024 that Tommy had transferred to a Vineland inpatient rehabilitation program. In May 2024, he was finally able to return home and begin to establish his “new normal”.
Throughout Tommy’s recovery, his family has faced overwhelming out-of-pocket medical expenses. One remaining expense in a wheelchair accessible van so Tommy can continue to access rehabilitation and medical appointments safely—and “so he can live his life fully”.
That’s why they turned to the trusted national nonprofit Help Hope Live for medical fundraising. Donations can be made at: https://helphopelive.org/campaign/23235/
Tommy’s community has raised over $4,000 since December 2023.
Tommy’s family chose Help Hope Live for fundraising to access unique benefits that protect both donors and Tommy’s eligibility for benefits.
Unlike a GoFundMe campaign, donations to Help Hope Live are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law, and all funds raised will be managed by the nonprofit to cover verified medical and related expenses. Help Hope Live verifies medical and financial need for every patient.
Help Hope Live is a national nonprofit that specializes in engaging communities in secure, tax-deductible fundraising campaigns for people who need a transplant or are affected by a catastrophic injury or illness. Since 1983, campaigns organized by Help Hope Live have raised over $181 million to pay patient expenses. ###
Written by Emily Progin
