08/13/2026
Register here ------> www.josemontanofoundation.org
5K Walk & Fun Run
Jose Montaño Foundation
Sunday, September 13, 2026
Registration Starts at 7AM
Glen Abbey Memorial Park
3838 Bonita Rd, Bonita, CA 91902
Choncho's Story
"Never give up and always believe in yourself"
In April 2011, Jose was diagnosed with Medulloblastoma, a rare type of malignant brain cancer. He underwent brain surgery at Rady Children's Hospital in San Diego to remove a tumor. Jose underwent more than 30 cycles of radiation and 32 chemotherapy cycles. While enduring this serious life-threatening medical condition, Jose taught his family, friends and supporters the true meaning of having faith, unselfishness, giving from the heart and believing in one's self.
In 2013, Jose established the Jose Montano Foundation, a non-profit designed to continue his wish to give from the heart. Jose experienced what it meant to be a patient at Rady's for days, weeks and even months at a time. During visits to the Hematology-Oncology unit at the hospital - connected to the chemotherapy machine - Jose pushed a red wagon filled with toys and healthy snacks and delivered them to other families visitng the clinic for treatment. Since starting the foundation, we have donated thousands of toys and snack bags and brought endless smiles to others.
Jose continued to demonstrate his giving heart and selfless nature which inspired others to support his mission. When the Make-A-Wish Foundation offered to grant him a wish, he asked for a new playground for his then school, Berry Elementary. Jose was recgonized for his contributions in the community; in December 2011, he was NBC7's Inspirational Student of the Month, the City of San Diego declared March 13th as Jose Montano Day and County Supervisors declared December 3rd as Jose Montano Day in San Diego County. In 2013, he was honored by The American Red Cross San Diego as Youth Hero of the Year. Previous to his passing in 2014, Jose was inducted into Southwest Middle School's Hall of Fame with the title Most Inspirational Student. In May 2014, the San Diego Padres presented his family with their first posthumous Comunidad Award.
The Jose Montano Foundation continues Choncho's mission. He was and will always be a true inspiration for everyone who hears his story!
