Antonio
Luisa and José have two children. Their youngest, Antonio, was diagnosed with a rather complex congenital heart defect. Cardiologists recommended open heart surgery, but the family did not have the resources to pay for the surgery and all the requisite pre-operative studies. Realizing the baby’s life was at risk, doctors at the Belga Hospital in Cochabamba referred the family to Puente de Solidaridad.
Through this visit, the family was able to join their fundraising efforts with support generated from local and international donors. Through the silent generosity of so many strangers, Luisa and José were given new hope that their baby might survive.
Antonio first underwent a diagnostic catheterization procedure to determine the scope and nature of his heart condition. One week later, Dr. Carlos Brockmann performed a complex surgery which included ventricular septal defect closure, pulmonary valve dilation, and right ventricular outflow tract construction. Antonio’s family and community celebrated when he was finally discharged from the hospital one week after surgery. Antonio’s family is infinitely grateful to all who contributed to saving the life of their beloved baby boy.