The San Pedro community once again rallied together in support of one of their own and displayed once again how united, strong and caring the people of La Isla Bonita really are. #StrongWithKat a fundraiser for Katherine Portillo took place this past weekend for a friend in much need.
Local Sanpedrana, Kathy Portillo was in a tragic car accident and suffered extensive injuries that include a severe spinal cord injury that left her paralyzed from the chest down. She is undergoing a complex recovery process and needs assistance with all daily living activities. The #StrongWithKat fundraiser (Dec. 2 &3) that included a radiothon, dollar drive, food sale, run/walk and T-shirt sales was a fundraiser that will help to provide 24/7 nursing care and physical therapy.
Kathy was born and raised in Belize. She has served as a role model for young Sanpedranas and continues to inspire the people of San Pedro.
Message from Kathy:
December 5, 2016
Today marks one year since our tragic car accident where I was instantly paralyzed, resulting in quadriplegia. It’s unfortunate that I’ve lost the opportunity to receive my pension from the Air Force and will not continue to receive 24/7 nursing care once I am medically retired.
This weekend my friends and family back home in Belize successfully organized and executed a fundraiser offset the cost of nursing care and physical therapy.
I want to express my fondest gratitude to my brother Adam Portillo, my best friend Sophia Forman Sophia Forman Lisbey, my second mother Flora Flora Ancona and many other amazing friends Kelly McDermott Kanabar, Melly Sanchez, Wilfredo Jr Alamilla, Pamela Zetina, Velie Paz Williams, André Shamir Guerrero, Daniela Guerrero, Rilma Rivero, Olive A Eiley, Elvie Guerrero Staines, Star Owens, Evan Owens, Charles Worthington, Flavia Tzul, Angel Nunez and many more …
Thank you for taking the time to show your support
Stay strong and beautiful
You Can Still Show Your Support
The island fundraiser has collected $20,810.00 so far. Friends of Kathy are still out gathering more pledges. Plans are to sell the remaining T-shirts and those wishing to support Kathy can still do so by contacting Sophia Lisbey (620-9567), Wilfredo Jr Alamilla (624-9480) or Daniela Guerrero at the San Pedro Town Council.
Donations can be made at http://strongwithkat.com
