Friends help out mourning mother

Victor, Irma Cortez's 20year-old son, died a year ago while earning a living to help support his family. Victor and his cousin, Jose, were cleaning carpets in a Moorpark home when tragically, the generator fumes flooded the home. Two days after their deaths, Irma dealt with Mother's Day 2006 by mourning her young son's death and preparing for his burial.

Mother's Day 2007 brought back all the memories and pain of her heartbreaking loss of Victor. Irma fortunately has her husband and two young sons to provide loving family support. In addition, concerned friends of Irma, including Patricia Calderon, program coordinator of Catholic Charities in Moorpark, prepared for her a surprise day of activities on Mexico's Mother's Day, Thurs., May 10.

With general donations from several Moorpark businesses and caring individuals, Patricia picked up Irma in the morning for an enjoyable day of special treatment. An early arrival at Mavericks of Moorpark Health Club allowed Irma time to enjoy the exercise room, followed by relaxing in the spa, sauna and shower. Irma was then taken to Enrique's Place Hair Salon where a professional hair stylist indulged Irma with an elegant cut and style of her choice.

To top off the pampering, Irma was taken to Ruby's Nails for a special manicure and pedicure. Irma was then given a new Mother's Day dress and shoes before being taken out for a late lunch at a local Moorpark restaurant.

Moorpark, as a concerned community, can make Irma feel special for a day, but the reality of living on the fringes of poverty will be back for Irma way too soon. Recently, Irma received extensive dental work from a local Moorpark dentist, Rick Borquez, at a third of the normal cost. Irma needs additional oral surgery and teeth replacement. Dr. Borquez has offered to again perform the work at a discount.

If you would like to help Irma, please make your check donation to Catholic Charities Ventura Region. Designate your donation for Irma Cortez and send it to 609 Fitch Ave., Moorpark, CA 93021. John Rak Moorpark