Vicente Marquez Arandia's life changed in an instant on Saturday, July 18. While working in a tree, Vicente fell approximately 20 feet, landing on his back and breaking his collarbone, sternum, two ribs, and multiple vertebrae, and leaving him unable to feel anything below his waist. Following emergency spinal surgery, his family received the heartbreaking news that he may not regain the ability to walk.
Vicente is Lead Maintenance at University Preparatory School, where he is known for his incredible work ethic and kind heart. On weekends, you'll often find him tackling handyman projects for friends and family. Soccer has always been one of his greatest passions — he plays in an adult league and coaches soccer at UPrep, investing countless hours into his players.
Vicente's recovery journey is just beginning. He has additional surgeries ahead, along with extensive rehabilitation and medical appointments that will require travel for both him and his wife, Tara, who also works in the maintenance department for the school district. Their daughter, Zoe, proudly serves in the military. As they focus on Vicente's healing, they are also navigating the uncertainty of what life will look like moving forward.
This fundraiser is an opportunity for our community to surround Vicente, Tara, and Zoe with the same generosity, compassion, and love that Vicente has so freely given to others. Every donation will help ease the financial burden of medical expenses, travel, rehabilitation, and the many unexpected costs that come with a life-changing injury.
If you're unable to give financially, we ask that you please keep Vicente and his family in your thoughts and prayers. Your encouragement, healing wishes, and messages of support mean more than words can express. Thank you for standing with the family during this incredibly difficult time.
