Pathfinder’s Faith Endures Through Illness
AMARILLO, TEX. – One year after the Texico Pathfinder family first rallied around David Navarez, whose story appeared on page 42 of the September/October 2025 issue of the Record, his journey continues. Now 14, David still faces significant health challenges, but the steadfast faith and hope that anchors his family remain clear.
Since being airlifted to Texas Children’s Hospital last year and spending more than 20 days in critical care, David’s road has been difficult. After initially experiencing kidney problems, he later received a leukemia diagnosis. Ongoing treatments, precautions and daily adjustments—especially due to his compromised immune system—have become part of life. Yet his spirit has not wavered.
That faith was on display at the Texico Area Pathfinder Bible Experience (PBE), in Odessa, Tex. Dressed in his Pathfinder uniform, David, along with his family, made the trip not only to support his sister, but because he remains a member of the Amarillo Galaticos Pathfinder Club and wanted to support his team. Due to ongoing chemotherapy and infection risks, he was unable to participate in PBE testing. Still, he was determined to be present for the event. David remained in his family’s vehicle while his parents sent photos and updates so he could follow along from the car.
Even from the parking lot, David remained part of the Pathfinder family—cheering, listening and sharing in his team’s experience. His commitment reminded others that being a Pathfinder is not just about events, but about courage, perseverance and faith in adversity.
Through these months, David’s father, Raul Nevarez, said the experience has revealed God’s goodness in a powerful way.
“Even though we are going through the storm, we are privileged to go through difficult times,” Raul commented. “We get a front-row seat to God’s work and His hand in our lives and in David’s life.”
Through this journey, David has begun thinking about his future. After experiencing treatments and long hospital stays, David hopes to become a doctor and help children facing serious illness. He has also talked about using some of the funds their family has received to one day start a foundation supporting children with cancer. Through it all, David believes God has a purpose for his life and desires to follow that calling.
David’s example reflects what “Pathfinder Strong” means. Strength is not only physical—it is spiritual. It’s the determination to remain faithful in difficult circumstances and to trust that God is still writing the story.
Messages, visits and generosity have been steady reminders that David is not alone.
The Texico Pathfinder family continues to surround David with prayer, encouragement and support.
