BY HERBERT ROMERO
OUR VOICE COUNTS
Hi, my name is Sandra Castillo, and I am 65 years old and fighting for my life. I am the owner of Lago Azul restaurant in Hailey, and because of breast cancer, I am unable to work anymore. Consequently, I had to shut down my restaurant to focus on my medical care. I am suffering financially, emotionally, and physically because of thisdiagnosis and the thought of having to even close my business.
Who I am
I am a grandmother of eight, and, as a mother, I understand what children can go through. When I see children in need, I offer my restaurant with no hesitation as a safe environment to eat, feel comfortable, and communicate their issues. As a grandmother, I understand the struggles people go through, and through my motherly instinct, I try to ease the burden. So, in events like the Hispanic Heritage, I have sponsored them with free food whenever I am financially stable. I also try my best to offer free food for those in need because I believe that no one should leave my restaurant with an empty stomach. I supported this community and gave opportunities to those in need even before I opened Lago Azul.
Why I need help
Unfortunately, I was diagnosed in early February with type 3 breast cancer and have surgery scheduled for the second week of March. I am unsure of the need for chemo or radiation. We are focusing on the surgery and recovery. This sudden news has left me financially unprepared. Luckily, I have Medicare that covers a large portion of it, but I still do not have enough funds to cover the rest on my own.
How can you help?
I am asking you to please support my GoFundMe to lessen the financial burden for me, so I can continue to enjoy my grandchildren and family. Every donation counts -— $5, $50, and even $500 will bring me one step closer to my goal. If you are unable to help, please share this, so others may have an opportunity to join and know.
My Fundraising Goal: $10,000
This will help cover: medical bills that aren’t covered by Medicare; follow-up care and medications, travel, emergency expenses.
From me to you:
Owning Lago Azul and being a part of this community has allowed me to know and share experiences with many wonderful people who have given me their support for these last 23 years. I am grateful to have this opportunity to serve every single customer as if they were my family. I understand that giving back to my community is not required, but I do it to help others. Whoever is reading this, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I have seen the support and loyalty that each customer has towards me, and I greatly appreciate it as a loving mother of my culture.
