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On January 18, 2024, João and our family embark on a journey to the USA in search of life-changing medical help. As his mother, Cilene, I share our heartfelt prayer needs:
Prayerful Needs
- Timely Visa acquisition.
- Favor to accompany us.
- Financial provision for all necessary expenses.
- Safety for our two beloved dogs while we're away.
- Travel mercy and safety.
- Continued good health for João.
- Clarity and guidance from specialists for João's care plan.
João's Journey: A Mother's Prayer
João embodies the core of our lives
He’s a fighter, enduring a challenging medical journey filled with disappointments. We’ve often felt hope slipping away after repeated failures, leaving him confined to a wheelchair and bedridden due to the aftermath of 12 surgeries and procedures that deprived him of mobility.
Throughout my pregnancy, all tests and imaging showed no signs of deformities. João was born naturally in Minas Gerais, Brazil, yet after his birth, circumstances turned dire. Abandoned by my husband and much of my family, I faced overwhelming odds at a young age. It was my mother who stood by us, providing unwavering support. João was born with multiple challenges—twisted legs, club feet, clubbed hands, stuck elbows, and internal complications—later diagnosed as Larsen syndrome, a rare genetic condition.
Navigating medical care
Became a labyrinth as professionals struggled to comprehend João’s needs. Our journey took us to São Paulo, seeking treatment, but encountered little understanding. Eventually, we found hope in Dr. Fernandez, only to face complications post-surgery, leading us to Dr. Rafael Yoshida, whose interventions, unfortunately, brought further hardships.
João’s mobility and independence dwindled post-surgeries, making everyday tasks a challenge. His struggles in school due to his special needs compelled me to become his school companion, inspiring my pursuit of inclusive education to teach children with disabilities.
I was blessed to meet a caring man who became my husband; and selfless mother, work tirelessly to support João’s needs. Despite financial strains and emotional tolls, we cherish each other deeply.
As we contemplate leaving our home and all that we know for the USA in search of help, fear wrestles with our faith. Yet, we anchor ourselves in God’s promise from Philippians 29:11, trusting Him for João’s future and holding onto hope for a better life with increased independence.
Your consideration and support in changing João’s life fills us with immeasurable gratitude. May God bless each of you abundantly for bringing hope into João’s world.
