PV2 Jesus “Jesse” De La Cruz

Menifee, CA

Following a proud family tradition of military service, Jesse De La Cruz enlisted in the Army in 2007.

On March 12, 2008, Private De La Cruz was serving as an Infantryman with the 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division in Iraq when his vehicle was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG). He sustained the loss of his left leg below the knee, shrapnel injuries to his upper and lower body, back injuries, hearing loss, and traumatic brain injury (TBI).

He was medically evacuated to Balad Air Base for initial stabilization and treatment, then transferred to Landstuhl, Germany. Stateside, he underwent additional surgery at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and was subsequently transported to Naval Medical Center San Diego.

Jesse and his wife, Sunshine, have three children: Thomas, Aurora, and Jesus Jr. They are involved with the local church and enjoy spending time together as a family.

In his current multi-level home, Jesse faces several barriers that limit his mobility, safety, and independence. The home’s layout lacks accessibility features, making it more difficult to navigate the living environment while using his wheelchair.

A specially adapted custom HFOT home with a single-level layout will significantly improve Jesse’s mobility and independence by making it easier to move throughout the home and enter or exit while using a wheelchair. “I won’t have to worry about falling down the stairs or scratching up the walls and doorways,” he says.

Originally from California, Jesse is choosing to remain in his home state.

Jesse extends his sincere gratitude to the donors and supporters of HFOT for their kindness and commitment. “I would like to thank all those who participate in giving to the Veteran community. The support that you all give is such a blessing to those you help. You are improving the lives of Veterans. It truly shows the love that American citizens have for our Service Members,” he says.

Ver:7/26

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