On behalf of Los Angeles Tenri Judo Dojo, we are reaching out to the Judo community and beyond to support one of our own. Maurice Axel Cruz Morales "Mo", a dedicated member of our dojo, a successful competitor, and a true friend, suffered a life-altering injury doing what he loves.

Last weekend, while competing at the USA Judo Senior Nationals in Albuquerque, Maurice sustained a severe spinal injury during a match. He was immediately transported to a local trauma center where he underwent emergency surgery.

Current Status

The road ahead for Maurice is long. Currently, he has regained movement in his arms, but he is facing paralysis in his legs. While Maurice is a fighter with an incredible spirit, the reality of his recovery involves immense physical, emotional, and financial challenges.

How Your Support Helps

Maurice has always been the first person to offer help to others, now, it is our turn to be there for him. As he and his family navigate this crisis, the financial pressure is mounting quickly. All funds raised will go directly to:

Medical & Surgical Bills: Covering the extensive costs of his stay in Albuquerque and ongoing procedures.

Specialized Transportation: Moving Maurice from New Mexico back home to Los Angeles safely.

Rehabilitation: Access to the best possible spinal cord injury specialists and equipment.

Living Expenses: Supporting his family as they take time away from work to be by his side during this transition.

Maurice is known in the dojo for his passion and his generous heart. Whether you are a fellow judoka, a friend, or someone moved by his story, any contribution, large or small, makes a difference.

The money collected will go directly to Mo's mother bank account.

Please share this page with your networks.

Let’s show Maurice the strength of the community behind him.

We are with you Mo.