INDIANAPOLIS — Geovani Galvez’s story is one of hope.
“I think it was something I probably could’ve passed away from, but the fact that I didn’t, it’s something I need to share,” Galvez said.
It has been a year since his second chapter began. Last July, the Methodist Hospital ER financial counselor attempted suicide. At the time, his young son faced a cancer relapse.
"Sometimes I used to wonder why I lived, but there was a greater purpose after that,” Galvez said back in March.
That is when we first introduced you to the father and son duo — not long after 6-year-old Levi’s second chapter began. His dad, who once tried to take his own life, saved his son’s months later through a stem-cell transplant.
RELATED | Months after attempting suicide, Noblesville father learns he's a match to save son's life
“I’m grateful for everybody who fought for my life and never gave up on me,” Galvez said.
Today, Galvez continues to work in Methodist’s ER. Levi is home, in remission and doing well. Last week, he celebrated his seventh birthday.
“He doesn’t really go anywhere, but being bored at home is better than being bored at the hospital,” Galvez said. He added the two still love to build Legos together.
On Galvez’s off time at the hospital, he has made it his mission to provide others hope.
“What Geo has been able to do is what you hope all your trauma patients do, right?” said IU Health Methodist Hospital Trauma Chaplain Thomas McDorr.
The Noblesville dad volunteers through the Trauma Survivor’s Network at the level one trauma center. His coworker and friend, Chaplain McDorr, spearheads the initiative.
RELATED | LIGHT IT UP FOR LEVI: IMPD, community support 6-year-old
“Your injury, your traumatic experience doesn’t have to define who you are,” McDorr said.
Galvez is one of four peer support volunteers. It is his job to connect with fellow trauma survivors while they are in the hospital.
“You’re just thinking like right there in that moment, how are things going to get better? What’s going to happen now? There’s so many unknown things you don’t know. I was that patient once,” Galvez said.
Advocating for resources, for help and support is the focus of Galvez’s second chapter. One he hopes to continue writing alongside other survivors.
“It’s a great experience because I feel really strong and confident of what they’re going through, but also what I faced too,” Galvez said.
There are also resources once patients are discharged. The Trauma Survivor's Network Support Group meets every second Tuesday of the month. Virtual meetings start at 6. Click hereto learn more.
-
IMPD locate missing 6-month-old boy safely
IMPD announced a six-month-old baby who was reported missing on Wednesday night has been located safely.
Retailers say they're ready for potential Trump tariffs
President-elect Trump is promising major tariffs that could impact retailers and their consumers. Here's how businesses say they may have to change their operations.
It's been 278 days without measurable snow in Indy; this changes Thursday.
It's been a while since Indy has seen snow, so here are a few reminders, specifically relating to your car.
Johnson County mom pushing for cameras in daycare facilities
Rachel Drabick's daughter suffered a fractured femur in the care of her babysitter. So, she created a petition to implement mandatory surveillance cameras in childcare facilities.
