Aurora's Tony Galvez, Disability Advocate, Dies at 37

Galvez founded the SAN Antonio Foundation to raise funds for kids with life-altering diseases.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Jose Antonio 'Tony' Galvez, a 37-year-old disability advocate from Aurora, Illinois, passed away on March 5 after battling Duchenne muscular dystrophy for over 20 years. Despite his own health challenges, Galvez founded the SAN Antonio Foundation to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for kids fighting cancer and other life-altering diseases. His inspirational spirit and determination to help others left a lasting impact on his community.

Why it matters

Galvez's story highlights the power of perseverance and compassion in the face of adversity. Despite his own debilitating condition, he dedicated his life to uplifting others and making a difference. His foundation's work provided critical support to families in need, demonstrating the positive change one person can drive through selfless service.

The details

Galvez was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy at age 6, leading to reliance on a wheelchair, feeding tubes, and an oxygen mask. He endured numerous health scares and hospital stays due to his condition, yet he never let it define him. In 2015, Galvez created the SAN Antonio Foundation, which raised hundreds of thousands of dollars over the years for kids with cancer and other life-altering diseases. He was known for his joyous presence at the foundation's fundraisers, which often centered around his love for music, dance, and Mexican food.

  • Galvez was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy at age 6.
  • In 2015, Galvez created the SAN Antonio Foundation.
  • Galvez passed away on March 5, 2026, a few weeks shy of his 38th birthday.

The players

Tony Galvez

A 37-year-old disability advocate from Aurora, Illinois, who founded the SAN Antonio Foundation to raise funds for kids with life-altering diseases despite his own battle with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Ramon and Antonia Galvez

Tony Galvez's parents.

Juan Galvez

Tony Galvez's brother.

Casildo 'Casey' Cuevas

The Aurora Deputy Mayor who became close with Tony Galvez and helped him with the SAN Antonio Foundation.

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What they’re saying

“God gave me this disease for a reason. I want people to see that my disability has not stopped me and it doesn't have to stop others.”

— Tony Galvez

“He was so inspirational … (it was) his demeanor, his upbeat way of looking at life, especially with the conditions he was under.”

— Casildo 'Casey' Cuevas, Aurora Deputy Mayor

“At first you want to feel sorry for him, but after you get to know him, you have nothing but admiration. There are not enough words to say how proud I am of his work.”

— Casildo 'Casey' Cuevas, Aurora Deputy Mayor

What’s next

The city of Aurora will name March 26 as Tony Galvez Day, and the community can pay respects at a visitation on March 13 and funeral Mass on March 14.

The takeaway

Tony Galvez's inspiring life and legacy demonstrate the transformative power of compassion, determination, and a positive mindset in the face of immense challenges. His work through the SAN Antonio Foundation will continue to uplift and support families in need, ensuring his impact lives on.