A Double Check Presentation
Christina and the Landsharks had a late game on December 18, so why not rally to the DAWG Nation a check presentation at Bender’s for Craig Stinehour. What Christina didn’t know was that it was also an opportunity to surprise Christina with her own check presentation. With Craig Stinehour’s CIHRA crew and the Landsharks present, we presented Christina with a check to help cover recent medical bills and lost wages from illness. More importantly, we reminded Christina that she is cherished by her family, friends, teammates and DAWG Nation.
A Friend of DAWG Nation
If you have been around DAWG Nation, you probably know Christina Montoya. She is the heart and soul of the Landsharks hockey team and the Captain of Socially Awkward, both of whom have been hit hard by tragedy and strife. She has personally nominated and contributed to DAWG Nation in support of many, many families and friends, and now it was our turn to help this beautiful soul with her own battle.
A Long Battle Hits Home
Toya has experienced a long battle with her health and unfortunately, her recent struggles have not been resolved. The doctors can’t figure anything out so far, and she has constant pain/burning in her abdomen and dizziness. Both tax her mentally and physically. The burden of testing and various medical procedures has added more debt to her already seemingly insurmountable medical bills from a previous bout with cancer. Because of these battles, she has been unable to consistently play the sport she has loved since she was a teenager.
Her Mother’s Caretaker
Beyond her own struggles, Toya’s mother was recently diagnosed with kidney cancer and had surgery September 17th in hopes to prevent the spread. Her mother’s diagnosis was devastating. Toya is her mother’s caretaker, and her mother is precious to her and a source of strength. Due to her mother’s surgeries and her own battles, her newly formed massage business has taken a major hit due to her inability to consistently work, and she is about to lose her rented space.
Carrying a Heavy Load with Grace and Compassion
Life has been unequivocally hard for Toya of late, and there seems to be no end in sight with the recent deaths of friends and family. Toya is the source of strength for many people and has been a DAWG Bowl supporter, player, and advocate since the beginning. She carries a heavy load with grace and compassion. She is near and dear to the hearts of many survivors, DAWG devotees, and everyone’s path she crosses. DAWG Nation has stepped up with you at our side to once again meet Toys’s strife with community, compassion and financial assistance.
