Whenever we see someone in need, the general reaction is to try to help in any way we can.

Currently, there is one of our fellow Mavs that needs all the help she can get. Her name is Mildred Ruiz and she is a wife, a mother, and above all, one of us.

Near the end of last year, her family suffered a devastating accident. Her husband is a truck driver. In December, he was driving his truck from Olathe when a fire started in the cab of his truck due to faulty repairs. His face and hands were burned severely due to the fire. This incident had caused him to wreck his truck as well.

Her husband has a very long road to recovery. They have had to make trips to Denver every week since the accident for doctor visits and for surgery. This has been not only emotionally and mentally challenging for her and her family, but financially as well.

During all of this, she has stood by her husband’s side and has been there for him no matter what. She has also remained a full-time student as well. She is graduating next week with high academic standing. This is one exciting moment she will have through everything.

So, you ask, how can you help? Reisher Scholarship group is hosting a fundraiser at Cafe Rio on Thursday, May 16. Anyone who brings in a copy of the voucher, either on their phone or printed out, will have 20% of the proceeds from their purchase go to help the Ruiz family. Cafe Rio is located at 2412 Patterson Rd., across the street from the Mesa Mall. Don’t forget to bring the voucher!

For more information, please contact Jonathan Phelps at jdphelps@coloradomesa.edu.

Image courtesy of Susan Moore | The Criterion