Koda's Legacy: Helping His Family Recover

Thanks for all the in-kind donations, we have bags and bags of clothes to go through. But space is limited, so please hold clothing and furniture donations until further notice so that we can secure a new residence for the family. Continued prayers for healing are greatly appreciated.

Ember is at is at Na-Na & Pa-Pa’s house with Mom & Dad. She came from the hospital on Friday and yesterday she started walking, running, jumping, marching and dancing, which is great for her recovery. Unfortunately her sleep is being interrupted by nightmares of the fire.

Thank you Charlie Snider.

It is with the deepest sorrow that I announce the death of Koda "Koko" Luis Sandoval. Koko turned 3 years old on March 11, and we celebrated his birthday this past weekend in what could only be described as how I envisioned a perfect day to be a Pa-Pa.

Koko succumbed to smoke inhalation on March 26, 2025. I am also asking for prayers of healing for his sister, Ember, 5 years old, who is having surgery for 2nd-degree burns on her legs and buttocks, as well as his mother, Lexi, who also was treated for smoke inhalation after entering the burning apartment to save her children.

Koda is survived by his mother, Alexis Victoria Sandoval, and step-father, James Gayton, III; his sister, Ember "Emmy" Skye Luccketta; his grandparents, Kristen "Na-Na" Dawn Sandoval and J. Scott "Pa-Pa" Maddox, Luis Roberto "Poppa" Sandoval and Clara Sandoval; aunts, Hannah Elizabeth Sandoval and Zoe Celeste Sandoval; uncles, Luis Roberto Sandoval, Jr., Pablo Jesus Sandoval, David Sandoval, and Daniel Sandoval.

The only glimmer of light that this story contains is that Koda was able to offer a gift of life to two possible heart valve recipients. We hope his spirit lives on with those whose lives he saved and the families that can watch their children grow up because of his gift. 

A portion of the funds will go to the final arrangements for Koda, but the fire has also left the family homeless, with no salvageable furniture or clothing for James, Lexi, and Emmy, so we are also trying to help them with starting over in a new home. We are also concerned about mounting medical costs for Lexi and Ember. Any help will be greatly appreciated.