By Pat Trevino | 10/03/2026
Cuero has always been a place where neighbors step forward when life becomes difficult, and that spirit is shining again as the community gathers around 82‑year‑old Dellia Mendez, who is facing end‑stage renal failure and preparing to begin home dialysis.
A few years ago, Dellia bravely fought kidney cancer. Though she overcame that battle, the long-term effects have now led to severe kidney failure, leaving her strength and mobility uncertain as she transitions to home dialysis.
Her son Nick Villarreal and his wife Ashley have taken on the responsibility of caring for her daily. They are preparing to bring Dellia into their home permanently so she can receive constant support, safety, and comfort. But before she can move in, the couple has been working tirelessly on a major renovation — building a fully accessible restroom designed to meet her medical and mobility needs.
A Restroom Built for Safety, Dignity, and Medical Care
The restroom project has already reached $16,000, and construction is still ongoing. The renovation includes accessibility features essential for someone beginning home dialysis and struggling with mobility. Until the restroom is complete, Nick and Ashley make frequent trips back and forth to check on Dellia, ensuring she is never without help.
Nick shared a heartfelt message with the community:
“She is 82 and in end‑stage renal failure. She will be moving in with us as soon as her restroom is finished. She had kidney cancer 3–4 years ago. Until the restroom is finished it takes a lot of back and forth checking in on her. She will be beginning home dialysis very soon. We are unsure of how the dialysis will affect her strength and mobility. The cost of the restroom to date is $16,000 and we are not finished. We appreciate any and all help we have received and will receive in the future.” — From her son, Nick Villarreal
BBQ Plate Sale Benefit Fundraiser
To help ease the financial burden, family and friends have organized a BBQ Plate Sale Benefit Fundraiser.
📅 Date: October 17 ⏰ Time: 11 AM – 2 PM 📍 Location: 623 Evers St. 📞 Tickets / Info: Text 361‑676‑2817 💲 Cost: $12 per plate
Presale tickets will be entered into a raffle for handmade quilts, adding a heartfelt touch of community craftsmanship.
A Community That Shows Up
Nick and Ashley have expressed deep gratitude for every donation, every shared post, and every kind gesture. Their commitment to caring for Dellia reflects the heart of Cuero — families supporting one another, neighbors stepping in, and compassion leading the way.
This fundraiser is more than a meal. It’s a chance to stand with a family navigating one of life’s hardest seasons. It’s a reminder that in Cuero, no one faces hardship alone.
If you are able, consider purchasing a plate, sharing the event, or simply keeping Dellia and her family in your thoughts. Every act of kindness helps lighten their load.