WEST ORANGE, NJ — Victor Gonzales came to the United States 25 years ago to give his family a better future. Now – after a lifechanging medical diagnosis – his loved ones are "praying for more years" with him and asking for financial aid from the community to help make it happen.

Gonzales' family recently launched an online fundraiser to benefit the 47-year-old West Orange resident, who has been diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis and may have a life expectancy of two to five years.

As of Tuesday, the GoFundMe campaign has raised more than $9,500. Learn more or make a donation here.

Speaking on behalf of his family, Gonzales' child, Iveth, laid out the heartbreaking scenario on GoFundMe. Iveth wrote:

"Upon leaving the hospital, as per the doctors, he will be on 24/7 oxygen for the rest of his life," the younger Gonzales wrote. "Due to the fact, both my father and mother are still in the works of fighting for their legal status within this country (meaning they are not a U.S. citizen or U.S. resident), this makes it extremely hard to access health insurance."

"With this said, fortunately enough my family and I were able to rent an oxygen concentrator but could not buy a portable oxygen machine due it being expensive," Gonzales said. "However, with a portable oxygen concentrator it would make it easier for my father to walk around outside, leave the house for a short period of time to get fresh air with his family. Currently with the oxygen concentrator being at home, my father has been homebound and unfortunately cannot work any longer."

"With your help, we will be able to buy a portable oxygen machine in which he can carry and step foot outside the house," Gonzales wrote. "We can even begin his medicine treatment in which can also possibly slow down his progress. And in the long run, we can even get him started on more medical exams to hopefully get placed on the lung transplant list to receive one. And pay off any medical debt we acquire."

"From the bottom of my heart, I am creating this on behalf of my family and I to ask for any help and your prayers for my family during this time," Gonzales pleaded. "No child ever imagines losing their loved ones so soon. Any donation on your behalf would mean the world to my family and I. With your help and most importantly your prayers I know my father, my family and I will stay strong to overcome this. I love you all and sending all my blessings."

"May God keep you all safe, healthy and blessed," Gonzales added. "Thank you from the bottom of my heart."

See the GoFundMe campaign for Victor Gonzales here.

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Sign up for Patch email newsletters. Learn more about posting announcements or events to your local Patch site. Don't forget to visit the Patch West Orange Facebook page.