Iker
Nine-month-old Iker presented concerning symptoms at birth - low birth weight, purple skin, fatigue, and agitation. He was diagnosed with supracristal ventricular septal defect, a congenital heart disease requiring urgent surgery. Despite the unfortunate news, Iker’s family was committed to caregiving for and doing all they could to improve the infant’s health.
Iko’s parents Bruno and Flor were concerned about the costs of Iko’s medical bills and surgery, as the family has faced financial difficulties. In a testimony, Flor shared the family’s struggles, “When they told us at the pediatrician that he needed surgery, we thought that it would not be so complicated. They sent us to rent some equipment, and for us, it is impossible to pay all the money that they ask us for ...” Iker's father Bruno works as a bricklayer's assistant, but due to the pandemic, his work hours were greatly reduced. Flor also works selling breakfast at a street stall. Between the two of them they can only manage to collect enough for food, rent, and other basic necessities. Despite these concerns, Bruno and Flor worked diligently and reached out to Puente de Solidaridad to access medical attention for their son.
On November 22, 2021, Iko received the surgery he needed for his condition with the help and support of Dr. Carlos Brockmann, Puente de Solidaridad, and the Goff Gift Fund. His procedure was a success, and he was discharged five days later. His family is grateful for the many contributions to improving the life of young Iker.