HOUSTON — About two weeks ago, Silvia Garcia's life turned upside down after her son Royder was shot while they were at a garage sale.
The 7-year-old's intestine was punctured twice after he was shot in the back. He had to have multiple surgeries and now requires a colostomy bag.
"Los dolores de mi hijo en el estomago," Silvia said.
She said Royder was in a lot of pain. Though Royder was able to go home to recover, Silvia had to provide him with 24/7 care, but she also had five other children to take care of. When community members heard her story, they stepped up to help.
"When it comes to children, we are going to show up," said April Aguirre, the aunt of Arlene Alvarez, the 9-year-old who died from gun violence. "It honors Arlene and we are going to keep her legacy alive. In her name and her honor."
Houston Crime Stoppers even pitched in to make sure Royder got back to his normal life.
"We are going to do everything we can to rebuild, heal and get you back over to your friends," said Andy Kahan, director of victims services and advocacy for Crime Stoppers of Houston.
Silvia was grateful for everyone who came to her side when she needed it the most.
"Dios es grande … volvió como a nacer. Así volvió otra vez," she said.
She also said she was thankful to God for giving her Royder a second chance at life.
So far, no arrests have been made in this shooting.
The Houston Police Department released images of the suspect’s vehicle which was described as being a gray Toyota Avalon. The department also said they were looking for a woman who they suspect knows the shooter's identity.
There is a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the shooter. You can call Crime Stoppers anonymously to give a tip.
The family has started a GoFundMe account to help with Royder's medical expenses. He will still need another surgery to remove the colostomy bag.