California linemen are rallying to help Apprentice Lineman Javier Esquival, who has been diagnosed with Valley Fever.
Valley Fever is a fungus found in the soil of dry, low rainfall areas. It is endemic in many areas of the southwest United States, and can be very dangerous when it lodges in the lungs.
Brother Esquival, who had been working in the San Joaquin Valley before Christmas, has contracted a serious case of Valley Fever. He is unable to work and in need of financial assistance.
Lineman Steve Burkhart and his wife Renee have started a campaign, which has the support of IBEW 1245, to raise money for Brother Esquival, via the website YouCaring.
“We hope to ease some of the financial burden by getting through the wait time for other financial assistance,” said Renee. “My husband and I want to do something for this guy – he is a very decent man with a family and is a top-notch apprentice. My husband, who has been a lineman for 20 years, was very impressed with this young man (and he is not easily impressed by anyone!)”
If you are able to provide financial assistance in any amount to Brother Esquival, you can do so by visiting: www.youcaring.com/other/javier-esquivel/126925