The Lopez family is facing unimaginable heartbreak after the passing of their infant son, Ethan Israel Lopez, who died on January 8, 2026, after battling severe medical complications since birth.
Ethan was born prematurely on August 20, 2025, at just 35 weeks, and immediately faced overwhelming health challenges. Doctors diagnosed him with prune belly syndrome, a rare condition that affects the abdominal muscles, urinary tract, and kidneys. In Ethan’s case, the disease caused kidney failure that required dialysis, underdeveloped lungs that made breathing difficult, and neurological damage from a stroke.
Born in McAllen, Texas, Ethan was transferred shortly after birth to Driscoll Children’s Hospital in Corpus Christi, where he spent his entire life in intensive medical care. For four months, Ethan fought courageously as doctors worked to stabilize him and give him every possible chance to survive.
Despite the severity of his condition, Ethan’s family never gave up hope. His parents, Martha Trujillo and Jose Julian Lopez, relied on their faith and the prayers of others, believing that God could still work a miracle even when medicine had reached its limits.
Tragically, Ethan’s fragile body could no longer endure the strain. Surrounded by love, he took his final breath on January 8, leaving behind parents, relatives, and a community grieving the loss of a life that was far too short but deeply meaningful.
Now, the Lopez family faces the painful task of bringing their baby home and laying him to rest — a moment no parent is ever prepared for. They are asking for prayers and support as they navigate the darkest chapter of their lives.
Though Ethan’s time on Earth was brief, his courage, his fight, and the love he inspired will never be forgotten. His family hopes his story will remind others of the power of faith, the strength of prayer, and the preciousness of every life.
🕊️ Rest in peace, sweet Ethan. You are forever loved.
