Marcus Espinoza, age 15, and Arnold Schwarzenegger have something big in common; not only did they both have congenital heart problems but they also had the same heart surgeon Dr. Vaughn Starnes. Although Arnold's heart is back pumping strong again, Marcus is still in great pain from his recent and 3rd heart operation.

A couple of years back, after Marcus's 2nd operation (and during what family thought what was then his darkest hour) and before his 3rd operation, Marcus was a part of the "Make a Wish Foundation". This terrific organization gives children, in serious need, the opportunity to make their one and only dream become a reality. Marcus's #1 dream was to meet Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Thanks to the "Make a Wish Foundation", you see Marcus here on the set of End of Days in 1999 as Arnold signs a great autograph for the little man.



I first became acquainted with Marcus's mom, Susan, through emails and soon enough, I invited her and Marcus to my house. I had the wonderful opportunity to sit with this strong mother and the child with a heart of gold. As Marcus watched T2 on my TV, I thumbed through all of Marcus's personalized autographs from Arnold. The Oak didn't just sign one. He signed dozens for Marcus! I listened with a smile as I learned Arnold spent some good time joking around with them and made Marcus feel like he really connected with his mentor.

In 2001, I attended a Schwarzenegger charity event in my home town of San Jose, CA. Little did I know Marcus and his mother were also there meeting The Oak for the second time. At first we thought Arnold didnt recognize me, Marcus started, but a few minutes later it looked as if Arnolds face lit up and remembered exactly who I was - and he even said my name without me reminding him. He gave me a big hug and we caught up a little on how I have been.

On June 27th 2002, 15 days after his schools graduation ceremony, Marcus had his 3rd operation. Unfortunately Marcus wasnt greeted by Arnold as he was well into shooting T3, however Arnold would NO WAY forget about his favorite fan.

A few days before Marcuss recent operation, he wanted to have a pre-operation party and go to Universal Studios (especially to see T2-3d: Battle Across Time). Little did Marcus know but his mom and I attempted to arrange for something special since we have connections. Upon arriving into his room at his hotel, a surprise was awaiting him. A giant, colorful batch of balloons, an autograph and a card was there. It was from non-other than Arnold Schwarzenegger!

Here, little Marcus is surrounded by Arnolds balloons! Click on the card to read Arnold's kind words.



Well have more Marcus stories to come as he is no doubt one of TheArnoldFans all-time favorite members. Although Marcus still has not yet fully recovered from his recent surgery and his energy is low, his admiration for Arnold is forever high. Marcus wants his mentor to know he is so thankful for the friend Arnold has become.

Hang in there Marcus. We are all thinking about you... Especially Arnold.

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René de Jong