GoFundMe Launched for Perez Hilton's Family Amidst His Treatment

A GoFundMe campaign has been established by a long-time friend of Perez Hilton, aiming to provide financial assistance to the blogger's family as he undergoes treatment at a residential facility. Tony-winning producer Tom D’Angora initiated the fundraiser to benefit Hilton's immediate family while the influencer, whose real name is Mario Armando Lavandeira Jr., focuses on his mental health and recovery.

Hilton was transferred to the facility after spending a month in the hospital following a significant mental health crisis that included an attempt at self-harm. The situation has led his mother, Teresita Lavandeira, to temporarily pause her own life to care for Hilton's three children: Mario, 13, Mia, 11, and Mayte, 8. D’Angora stated that the funds raised will directly support Hilton's mother and children, covering the additional expenses of raising three children full-time. He emphasized that none of the money will be used for Perez Hilton personally.

"Perez is currently receiving full-time residential treatment while he focuses on his mental health and recovery," D’Angora wrote on the GoFundMe page. "This process will take time. In the meantime, his mother has stepped in to care for his children full-time and give them the stability and support they need."

The fundraiser has the endorsement of Hilton's family, who have shared a link to the campaign on their official website. Hilton's loved ones confirmed his entry into a residential treatment program where he can fully concentrate on his recovery, noting that this is an important step in a potentially long process. He is expected to remain in treatment for several weeks, possibly longer, based on his treatment team's recommendations. During this period, Hilton does not have access to a phone or laptop and his communication with friends and family is restricted.

The children are currently residing in Miami, Florida, under the temporary care of their grandmother. Hilton's relatives expressed gratitude for Lavandeira's dedication to providing stability and routine for the children during this challenging time. Court documents cited by TMZ indicate that Hilton is permitted supervised visits with his children, contingent on obtaining psychiatric clearance.

The crisis occurred several months after Hilton relocated from Las Vegas back to his hometown of Miami, where he was living with his children and mother at the time of the incident. On August 4, Hilton was discovered by his sister with significant lacerations and an apparent overdose. He had been broadcasting live on TikTok, during which the self-harm appeared to take place. The livestream was eventually stopped by the platform, and Hilton's account has since been banned. Responding deputies transported Hilton to a hospital under Florida's Baker Act, which allows for involuntary mental health holds. His family later confirmed he experienced substantial blood loss and multiple broken bones, but also stated he was receiving help and was surrounded by loved ones.

For those in need of support, the confidential 24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can be reached by calling or texting 988 in the US. In the UK, the Samaritans can be contacted at 116 123. In Australia, Lifeline is available at 13 11 14, and Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800.