It’s a proud moment not only for Ruiz Elementary, but for United ISD as well! Two second-grade students achieved an incredible milestone in the American Heart Association’s Kids Heart Challenge, helping raise awareness for heart health.
Jose Vaquera raised a remarkable $5,908, earning the title of #2 fundraiser in South Texas and ranking #6 in the entire Lone Star State. Axl Aguilar-Sanchez, wasn’t far behind, raising $2,428 and earning the #5 spot in South Texas.
Together, their efforts will directly support the American Heart Association’s mission to fund life saving-research, education, and community programs that promote heart health for children and families.
Jose Vaquera pictured with Mrs. Zepeda and Brandi Nelson, AHA.
To celebrate their achievement, Brandi Nelson, Senior Development Director for School Engagement at the American Heart Association, traveled to Laredo to personally recognize Jose and Axl at a special awards ceremony. As one of the top three South Texas fundraisers, Jose was presented with two trophies, a medal and a certificate. Axl proudly received his own medal and certificate as he reflected on his experience. “I learned hands-Only CPR and the signs of a stroke, like drooping of the face,” Axl shared.
For Axl and his family, this cause hits very close to home. “I lost my dad 15 years ago due to a heart attack and stroke, both at once,” said his mother, Melissa Aguilar. “Then in 2022, I lost my oldest brother at 46 from a cardiac arrest, and then my baby brother in 2023 and he was only 39.” That’s why she and Axl have made it their personal mission to help others through the Kids Heart Challenge. “We can save more lives to make the community better and safer,” Axl added.
Axl Aguilar-Sanchez pictured with Mrs. Zepeda and Brandi Nelson, AHA.
Jose’s family also felt the outpouring of community support. “We made videos with him asking for donations, and everyone stepped up,” said his mother, Mrs. Vaquera. “We are happy and so pleased with what we were able to accomplish.”
Nelson commended the district's support. “United ISD helped the American Heart Association make a big impact this year with 16 elementary schools completing their Kids Heart Challenge,” Nelson noted. “In Laredo alone, 175 families learned Hands-Only CPR and more than a million families learned this skill nationwide.”
Thanks to leaders like Jose and Axl, the event raised thousands of dollars across the region this Spring. “I want to make the world healthy and safe to have a great community here in Laredo, South Texas and around the world,” added Jose.
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