Jaime Escalante, the East L.A. teacher who was immortalized in the movie "Stand and Deliver," is fighting cancer. His family has run out of money to pay for treatments, according to reports.
Actor Edward James Olmos, who played the teacher in the film, said that Escalante’s family did not want to ask for help, but friends took it upon themselves to get the word out in hopes of making his final days as comfortable as possible. Olmos posted an appeal on his website to friends of Jamie asking them to make a donation.
Olmos said he has been "moved to tears" to hear of the circumstances now facing this "great man."
A fund drive has also been planned at Escalante's alma mater, Garfield High School, on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Bolivian-born Escalante, now 80 years old, gained international renown for his work teaching advanced math to "un-teachable" students at Garfield H.S. in East L.A.
Vanessa Marquez, who also appeared in the 1988 film, said that so far $5,000 has been raised toward the $30,000 needed by the family. A fund for Escalante has been set up by "Stand and Deliver" cast members and The Foundation for Advancements in Science and Education in Pasadena, which publishes Escalante's educational materials.
Contributions can be sent to "Friends of Jaime," C/O FASE, 236 W. Mountain St., Suite 105, Pasadena, CA 91103. Call 626-793-5300 for information.
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