What:
Thirteen Year Old Boy Receives Christmas Presents

When:
Sunday, December 23, 2001
3:00 p.m.

Where:
Calderon's Family Home
12226 Pacific Avenue #12
Los Angeles

Los Angeles: Approximately one half year ago, 13-year-old Edwin Calderon assisted Pacific Area officers David Morales and Stacey Witty during a routine field activity with his bi-lingual ability, Spanish to English. After the investigation, the officers learned that Edwin was suffering from bone cancer, which was primarily attacking his left leg. Although Edwin was weak from taking medication and chemotherapy, he remains one of the sweetest and most cheerful boys. Edwin's parents both work long hours to take care of their family. Edwin lives in a tiny apartment with his parents, grandmother and his younger sister Mayra.

Officers Witty and Morales took an active interest in Edwin and his well being. The officers would often stop by to see him and bring small gifts for Edwin and Mayra. During the summer of 2001, Edwin's parents were advised from Edwin's doctor that the treatments for the cancer were failing and that Edwin's leg had to be amputated.

Recently Officers Morales and Witty visited Edwin and were saddened to learn that Edwin's left leg had been amputated just below the knee. Edwin now wears a prosthetic leg and moves around pretty well, but he is cancer free.

The officers decided to give a Christmas present to Edwin and Mayra and went to the Toys-R-Us, which is located at 11136 Jefferson Boulevard in Culver City, with the intention of purchasing two bicycles. While in the store, the store manager, Mr. Chai Otrakul assisted the officers in selecting the perfect bicycles. Mr. Otrakul heard about Edwin's circumstances and advised the officers that he was going to give a discount on the bicycles. After personally assisting the officers and having the staff assemble the bicycles, Mr. Otrkul rang up the total for the bicycles for only two pennies, one penny for each bicycle.

On Sunday, December 23, 2001 at 3:00 p.m., Officers Witty and Morales will be visiting the Calderon's family to give bicycles as Christmas gift. Unfortunately, Mr. Otrakul cannot accompany the officers to the Calderon's residence because the store would be extremely busy during the Christmas holiday.

This media advisory release was prepared by Public Information Officer Jason Lee, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.