​​At age eleven, Jordan Anthony Gonzales was diagnosed with dysautonomia, a malfunction of the autonomic nervous system, which causes dizziness, difficulty breathing, fatigue, chest pains, headaches, nerve pain, low blood pressure, inability to walk or stand, and fainting. Jordan became so symptomatic that he spent many years at home and was homeschooled by his mother.

Despite these circumstances, Jordan remained positive and took every day as it came. In November 2006, Jordan was a Make-A-Wish recipient. He continued to be involved in the organization, leading the team "Jordan's Jumpers" to raise money for the Make-A-Wish Walk for Wishes. Jordan also served two terms as the representative for District 7 on the Sacramento City Youth Commission in Sacramento.

​Jordan's health has improved, but he still experiences symptoms. He serves as a companion volunteer with Gentiva Hospice and attends San José State University majoring in art with a minor in psychology. Jordan hopes to get his master's in art therapy after graduating so he can help guide others through their loss and grief using artistic expression.​