Berto
When Berto was born in May of 2019, his doctors and family had no concerns about his health. At ten months, Berto began to walk and his mother, Maia, noticed that he was tiring easily and struggling to breathe. She took him to a specialist who confirmed the child had severe heart issues. Berto was diagnosed with tetralogy of fallot, a complicated heart defect that requires surgical treatment.
Maia was referred to Puente de Solidaridad in May of 2021 for help. During the interview with Puente social workers, she shared, “I’m separated from Berto’s father. He helps me with basic expenses for milk and diapers. I also have two older children in grade school and high school. My family are farmers in Sucre. We don’t have many resources, but I will do whatever needs to be done for my child to have this operation. I am very grateful for the help you bring. I hope you continue helping children who need this type of support.”
After months of tests and pre-surgical observations, Berto was finally ready for surgery. Dr. Barrientos and Dr. Jaldín at the Incor Hospital in Santa Cruz performed the intracardiac repair of Berto’s tetralogy of fallot. Maia stayed with Berto in the hospital throughout the long process and for the nearly two weeks of intensive care after surgery. Finally, Berto was released from the hospital to continue his recovery at home. Maia and her family expressed their gratitude to all who made this possible including the Incor medical staff, Puente de Solidaridad, and the Goff Gift Fund. Gracias!