Justina

Justina came into the world in January of 2019. Soon after she was born, doctors diagnosed her with a congenital heart condition that caused an excessive flow of fluid to her lungs. Baby Justina was admitted to the neonatal unit for specialized care. As the expenses related to her treatment began to accumulate, doctors referred Justina’s parents to Puente de Solidaridad for accompaniment and possible financial support.

Justina is the third child of Lorgio and Justina. The family rents a simple, two-room home with a kitchen and a dirt floor. The bathroom is shared with other renters. With Lorgio’s income as a taxi drive, they are barely able to cover their daily expenses.

Justina's mother stated that during her pregnancy the doctors heard something strange in the baby’s heart. Justina was delivered by c-section and soon transferred to another public hospital to be seen by a cardiologist.

My husband was told that she needed emergency surgery. We do not have the financial resources. We live day to day. Our family supports us but they also don't have the means. The doctors told us about Puente de Solidaridad. Without your support, this surgery would be impossible. We are eternally grateful for your help for our little daughter.

At just five days old, Justina went into surgery with Doctors Barrientos and Jaldín at the Incor Hospital in Santa Cruz. Through the support of Dharma Social Projects and the coordination of Puente de Solidaridad, Justina was able to receive a special shunt to address her critical heart condition. Justina remained in the hospital for nearly six weeks after surgery. Her parents stayed with her at the hospital until she was finally strong enough to go home.

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