Raised in Tribute:
$236.90It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Arleen Avila, who left us at the age of 63. Arleen fought a courageous battle with Parkinson's disease for over 30 years, displaying unwavering strength and resilience in the face of adversity. After a long and difficult journey, she is now free from suffering and at peace.
Born on April 19, 1961, Arleen was a middle child with five siblings. She was a mother to two children and a proud grandmother to three grandchildren. Despite adversity, she had an unwavering love for her family.
A lover of the outdoors, Arleen found peace and comfort in her garden, often spending hours tending to her plants and enjoying the serenity of nature. She was once featured in the San Jose Mercury News for her daily walks along Mt. Hamilton.
Her passion for animals was evident throughout her life, as she always had dogs, cats, fish, and/or birds by her side. Their companionship brought her great happiness.
Known for her strong sense of humor, Arleen had an infectious personality and never failed to bring a smile to those around her. Her strong ethics and unwavering belief in doing what was right were foundational to her character, and she was always willing to fight for justice, no matter the obstacle. She demanded excellence from those she interacted with, with high expectations for her care.
Arleen was fiercely independent and hardworking, always negotiating to ensure fair (and affordable) outcomes and standing her ground. Her love of food was well known—whether it was indulging in delicacies such as a Carls Jr. burger, a Taco Bell feast, or snacking on popcorn and Red Vines, she knew how to enjoy life's little pleasures. Just like her snacks, Arleen was both sweet and salty.
Although life was not always easy for Arleen, she approached each challenge with determination and a never-give-up attitude. She was suspicious and often paranoid, always keeping a watchful eye on the world around her. Yet, through all of her struggles, she remained a kind-hearted person with a giving spirit, always looking out for others and offering help when needed.
Though her journey in this world has ended, her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and care takers. We take comfort knowing that she is now at rest, no longer suffering, and at peace.
May you find the peace you so greatly deserve, Arleen.
The Michael J. Fox Foundation is dedicated to finding a cure for Parkinson's disease and to ensuring the development of improved therapies for those living with Parkinson's today. The Foundation is the world's largest nonprofit funder of Parkinson's research, with more than $800 million in high-impact research funded to date.
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