the heart behind casting with christian
Christian Allan Balderas was born on May 18, 2011, in Del Rio, Texas.
Christian was the light of our lives. He was a true mama’s boy, but he was also his dad’s little man. He was the kind of young man who left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He had a big heart, a bright smile, and a spirit that could light up any room.
As a young teenager, Christian enjoyed basketball, video games, YouTube, youth group activities, and spending time with his friends and family. In the final months of his life, he found a special love for the outdoors, particularly while fishing in the Texas Hill Country. Those moments on the water became some of his favorite memories. Christian had also recently started playing football, where he quickly proved himself to be a dedicated teammate and a great sport. He always gave his best effort, encouraged others, and enjoyed being part of something bigger than himself.
Family meant everything to Christian. He shared a special bond not only with his parents and stepmother, Letty, but also with his grandparents. He cherished every moment he spent with them. Most of all, he loved being a big brother. He was protective, patient, and caring with his two little sisters. The love he showed them reflected the kind of young man he was becoming, a leader, a protector, and someone who loved deeply.
On October 31, 2025 Christian was involved in a UTV accident and spent 5 days in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at University Hospital, where he received exceptional care from a compassionate team of doctors and nurses. Unfortunately, despite their dedicated efforts, Christian passed away from his injuries. With his parents at his side, he was lovingly released into the arms of Jesus and welcomed home into heaven.
Although Christian’s time on earth was far too short, his legacy continues through the lives he touched and through the work being carried out in his honor. His story has inspired acts of faith, service, endurance, and community support, reminding people that even in tragedy, God can use one life to impact countless others.
“Christian Strong” is more than a phrase, it is a reflection of who Christian was: deeply loved, faithfully remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of those who knew him.
why casting with christian was created
Casting with Christian was created to honor the life, faith, and legacy of Christian Allan Balderas.
After the tragic loss of Christian, our family experienced firsthand the overwhelming challenges that come with grief, trauma, and uncertainty. During some of the darkest moments of our lives, we witnessed the power of faith, community, compassion, and the kindness of complete strangers. We also discovered how many families face similar struggles and often do so without the support they need.
In the months leading up to his passing, Christian developed a deep love for the outdoors, especially fishing in the Texas Hill Country. Those moments brought him peace, joy, and lasting memories with his family and friends. Through the foundation, we hope to share those same experiences with other children and families while creating opportunities for healing, connection, and hope.
Casting with Christian exists to support children and families facing hardships through scholarships, outdoor experiences, family assistance programs, and community outreach. We are especially committed to helping families navigating medical crisis, grief, and difficult life circumstances.
Our mission is simple: to turn tragedy into purpose, to serve others in Christian’s honor, and to ensure that his legacy continues to impact lives for generations to come.
Christians story did not end on November 4, 2025. Through every child helped, every family supported, every scholarship awarded, and every fishing line cast, his legacy lives on.
Psalm 55:22-”Cast your burdens on the Lord, and he shall sustain you.”
who is behind casting with christian
Brittany JOnes
Co-Founder, Board Member, and mother of Christian. Provides hands-on leadership, vision, and direction for Casting with Christian, dedicating her time and efforts to advancing the foundation’s mission and preserving Christian’s legacy. This work has become a personal purpose and passion.
Derrick Balderas
Co-Founder and Board Member, and father of Christian. Supports Casting with Christian through an active role by participating in outreach events, physical challenges, and fundraising efforts that advance the foundation’s mission. His involvement in the foundation has also become a meaningful part of his healing as he supports its mission and outreach
the board
The Board of Casting with Christian includes family members, spiritual leaders, and individuals who bring experience in supporting others through grief, child loss, and the continued honoring of Christian’s legacy. (Photo coming soon).