Friends and family of John Vasquez, a 46-year-old Gilroy native who was diagnosed less than three years ago with a rare nerve disorder called chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, along with multiple myeloma (a cancer that starts in the plasma cells of bone marrow) and monoclonal gammopathy (a condition in which an abnormal protein is in the blood) will host a family barbeque, raffle and fundraiser from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, April 27 at Christmas Hill Park in Gilroy.Â
Vasquez, a father of three, has been a volunteer with the City as a channel 34 camera man, recreational soccer and Little League coach and member of the Luigi Aprea Elementary School Parent Club. In the past year, he has not been able to walk on his own, drive or work. He began chemotherapy in June 2012 and is scheduled for a bone marrow transplant at Stanford Hospital in April.
“We need to raise some money for him to help on medical bills that his insurance will not cover,” said John’s uncle, Rich Perez. “He has been out of work for about 15 months due to his illness.”
Donations can be made to Chase Bank via the John Vasquez account, # 322-271-627. Donated items for the raffle can also be sent to 1350 Fernwood Lane, Gilroy, CA, 95020. Catering will be provided by Dave Bozzo. Tickets for adults are $20 and $10 for children.
For more information contact Bobby Vasquez at (408) 310-5626, Linda Vasquez at (408) 847-2326 or email ro*************@gm***.com.
