LA County Mother Of 6 Battling Coronavirus Is On Life Support

LOS ANGELES, CA — As Brenda Martinez, 43, fights for life against the coronavirus, her six children are also battling COVID-19 infections, fearing a future without their mother.

The Palmdale mother of six has been hospitalized for a week and in critical condition for the past three days, her sister-in-law Crystal Acosta Torres said. Now the community is rallying to help the family hard hit by the pandemic. Acosta Torres has created a fundraising account for her nieces and nephews to try to help them get by while their mom is hospitalized.

Martinez, who was isolating at home before she had trouble breathing and went to a hospital, has been unresponsive. Her children have been unable to visit her in the hospital, only allowed to see her on a videoconference call. Martinez's children range in age from 2 to 19, and it's the oldest boy, Juan Jose "JJ" Martinez, 19, who is caring for his siblings. Having tested positive for COVID-19, all six children are in isolation, with some experiencing minor symptoms, their aunt said. The siblings, whose father is unable to help, need financial support for basic necessities, their aunt said.

"They need to pay their rent for this month and their bills for food and stuff. It's for the kids because they don't have anyone," Acosta Torres said, noting that she and other family members have been dropping off supplies to the family's home and trying to help however they can.

Since setting up the fundraising page, more than $2,429 of a $5,000 goal has been gifted to the family from various donors, and the sister-in-law said her nephew has been grateful for what's come in so far.

"I just want to say thank you to everyone. My nephew is grateful because this is a lot while he's making these decisions for his mom and taking care of his siblings while she continues to fight for her life," Acosta Torres said. "It's hard for the family, and we want to thank everyone for helping where they can. Our family truly appreciates everyone who has donated for my nieces and nephews. Thank you to everyone who has shared our post and thank you for all your prayers. Our family definitely feels the love and support."

To contribute, visit the GoFundMe page set up for the family.