Deputy David Santos joined BCSO last April, two months later he was diagnosed with leukemia. Still, he pushed through the academy and achieved his dream.
SAN ANTONIO — On Thursday, a Bexar County Deputy lost a courageous and hard-fought battle with leukemia. Deputy David Santos Jr. was just 25-years-old.
Deputy Santos’ family says they are relying on their faith, to get them through this difficult time.
Santos joined BCSO last April, then in June while still completing his training, he received the devastating diagnosis.
“He pushed through the academy, because that’s when he was feeling sick,” said Teresita Santos, David’s mother.
Surrounded by family and her church congregation, Teresita says she is relying on her faith during her time of grief.
“We always trust in God, like right now, that’s what’s keeping me (going). I know God has a purpose. I know that he’s with him and I’m at peace,” said Teresita.
When Santos was diagnosed with Leukemia, doctors told him that it was the most aggressive they have ever seen.
His wife, Denise Fuentes says even though he was battling the disease, he kept pushing through the academy for his family. Santos’ family includes his 1-year-old son Leo and his stepson Matteo.
“He was super tired, like he couldn’t sleep. He would stay up. and just sweat.” said Fuentes.
Santos completed the academy, fulfilling his dream of being a sheriff’s deputy and joining a long line of family in law enforcement, including cousins, tios and his grandfather.
“I was so proud of him because he he that’s what he wanted,” his mother said.
But Santos’ dream would be short-lived. He passed on February 12, he was just 25.
Deputy Santos is described as kind, loving and a hard worker. Santos was a 3-year letterman at Eagle Pass High School, where he played football as a defensive tackle. Three of his coaches reflected on his passing.
“David was a hard worker. You know, whatever we asked him to do he went above and beyond and did it and with a smile on his face. You know let’s get to work,” said Roger Olivas, head football coach at Eagle Pass High School.
“He smiled all the time but he did his work. He was a great student, you know, just just the kind of kid you love and admire,” said Tom Gonzalez, retired head football coach at Eagle Pass High School.
“All I could think about David is really good memories, especially on the football field. He just brought excitement to us. He brought a winning tradition back and he’s going to be missed,” said Joe Vila, former defensive line coach at Eagle Pass High School.
Both on and off the field, Deputy Santos was also known for having a strong belief in faith.
“I want to say his faith was contagious and he wasn’t scared of sharing his faith and people knew that he loved God,” said Pastor Joe Rocha.
It’s that faith that Teresita says is giving her some comfort.
“I know he trusted God, every step and I know he’s with God right now,” said Teresita Santos.
The family is collecting donations for Deputy Santos’ family. If you would like to help, they are accepting donations through CashApp.
The Cash App is $dsaints54.