Eva
Eva is the youngest child of two children. The eight year-old patient began presenting sudden fainting spells, in addition
to chest pains during physical activities, which greatly concerned her parents. After being referred to a heart specialist
in Cochabamba, Eva was diagnosed with Persistent Ductus Arteriosus, an opening between two blood vessels leading from the heart.
Her diagnosis was further distressing for the family, as two years ago, Eva’s brother was diagnosed with cancer and continues
treatment today.
Eva’s condition required urgent heart surgery, and worries and concerns surrounding the costs of Eva’s procedure arose. With no fixed income, Eva’s parents clean, and conduct different tasks around Cochabamba and Santa Cruz, in order to raise money to support the family of four. Much of their finances have been used for medical treatment of their children’s health problems, as both Eva and her brother face major health conditions. Additionally, the family does not have health insurance and reside in an old house owned by Eva’s maternal grandparents. Despite their financial limitations, Eva’s parents work diligently and are dedicated to providing their children the medical attention and care they need. Eva’s mother shared, “We find work wherever we can, cleaning, cooking, in everything that has been possible… I am not ashamed. I can make any sacrifice for my children.”
After seeing Eva’s need for heart surgery and her family’s financial setbacks in paying for this procedure, the hospital referred her to the Puente de Solidaridad Foundation for aid and assistance provided through the pediatric cardiac surgery program. Eva is an intelligent and sociable girl, and her family has remained resilient and strong in spite of the challenges they have faced in recent years. Fortunately, Eva was able to receive the surgery she needed with the help and support of the Puente de Solidaridad Foundation and the Goff Gift Fund.
One month after the surgery, Eva’s mother reported that her daughter is doing very well. She recovered quickly and is preparing to return to school. She’s gaining weight and is able to support herself well, which she wasn’t able to do before. All of these positive changes have been a great relief and a source of hope for Eva’s family.