Daniel Celebration of Life

Today I sit here to tell a little a quick story about an amazing kid who grew up being an amazing Son, brother and Friend. But, ended in the most tragic way possible . Daniel Cortez was my brother when Danny was born he was the joy of this family, he was the happiness we didn't know we needed in our home. Danny grew up to be such a smart kid, and great athlete. Danny was never shy to show how smart he was and would prove to my parent year after year with becoming student of the month every year for about 8 yrs. My parent would put him in private lessons for pitching because he had an amazing arm as a pitcher in baseball. His dream was to become a professional baseball player. He played for Whittier Pony since the age of 5, tried out or high school baseball and was let down. His dream was crushed! School was never the same for him, but manage to gradate and did it for our mom to make her proud, it  was what Danny would always say to us. Danny continue to be funny, a dork, and hard working. Until later in life they someone introduced him to a demon of a DRUG. Danny got lost in his own world and through that journey he continued to fight hard to get back on his feet. If you know anyone in this situation you would understand with time this is no longer an addiction but a disease. He battled so hard in rehab, at one point we thought we were finally getting our brother back, he started going to college with a 4.0 GPA and on the principals list while in rehab, it wasn’t easy but he tried his dreams where still alive. Through out the years my brother started to fall again this time it was not like the last time this time it was different. My brother had finally hit rock bottom. His disease became so much more real he began to deal with homelessness and would not accept help from no one. On the 7th of August we had a conversation as best as we could, we were able to tell each other how much love we had for each other and he told me he was going to get help. Unfortunately, on 8/16/24 our brothers life was take from him. While crossing the street he was struck by two vehicles which killed him at impact. It’s never easy to lose a love one especially in such a tragic way. You might ask why I tell you all of this, well because transparency is what we want. With a Heavy heart I ask that you see pass all the bad and see him for who he was and his story. If you know anyone who is suffering with addiction please know it’s a real disease, help them in any way you can. 

I know times are tough, but I come here today to ask for help to allow us to give my brother the services and burial he deserves. We sometimes believe we will live a long life and never prepare for what is to come. Anything as much as a dollar or a prayer would be greatly appreciate it.