The community unity in Bocas del Toro is always inspiring. Great vibes were in the air at Space Bar & Food Trucks, as we gathered January 2, 2023, in support of our friend, Edu Nagobe. He was struck by a truck on December 27, 2022 and was in urgent need of $15,000 for an operation that would decide whether he would ever walk again. Musicians and other friends quickly mobilized to organize what would be one of the most epic jam sessions in recent Bocas del Toro history.
The charge was led by Tony Velasquez of Ritmo Bombolaye. The founder and vocalist of the local ensemble wrote to the “Bocas Music” WhatsApp group upon hearing the scary news about his friend. The following Monday evening after the WhatsApp messaging, the group proceeded to ignite a non-stop performance featuring a revolving door of Bocas del Toro’s finest musicians, switching instruments, singing harmonies; with old friends, new friends and perfect strangers, all collaborating on songs until late into the evening until a mighty crowd was assembled. It was a rocking good time and a truly special moment for all.
Alfredo Jurado Martinez of Bocasislove and The Bocas Breeze Newspaper both performed his music himself and provided the captures for the evening. Keep scrolling for a special collection of musician portraits.
In the end, $746 was raised from the 50% of bar sales donated by Space Bar & Food Tricks. There were $500 donated from the El Patron food truck, which sold out (and with good reason, the sandwiches are delicious!). A total of $428 was collected from people in the crowd.
Many thanks to Space Bocas, El Patrón, the Bocas del Toro musician community and everyone who came to drink, dance, eat, put dollars in the hat and show your support in any way. You are appreciated!
During the event, a video of Edu was broadcasted on the television. With broken hip and all, from his hospital bed in David, he delivered a brave message of love and gratitude; thanking everybody for their concern and assistance in his time of need. “Estamos con vos, Edu!” We’re with you.
At the time of this publication, the GoFundMe is currently at $11,837 of the $15,000 goal. Adding the total from the January 2nd activity brings the funds raised to $13,511. There was also money being collected via a raffle of prizes donated by the local business community.
UPDATE: Edu was successfully operated on and is now in physical therapy rehabilitation. Some words from Edu Nagode and his partner Marianella Mendes Rosso (Maru):
“We have deep gratitude for all the people who supported us from the first moment of the accident and even during the entire process to make operation happen. In 5 days we raised the funds for the operation. It was tremendous all the unconditional love and words of encouragement that were sent our way.”
Photos by Alfredo Jurado Martinez of Bocasislove +507 6264-8453
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