Leila
Leila is a bright 8-year-old girl, who lives with her mother and younger brother in the southern zone of Cochabamba. Leila’s mother has worked diligently as a kitchen assistant to provide for her family ever since her husband died in a tragic traffic accident three years ago.
Caring for Leila has been complicated by her fragile heart condition. Leila suffers from a narrowing of the aorta that delivers oxygen-rich blood to the body. Compared to her peers, Leila is small in both weight and height, and she struggles with intense heart palpitations and fatigue.
eila’s mother shared, “I know my daughter’s case is complicated. I feel all alone with this burden. It is very difficult to get ahead. I have to work and take care of my children. I have help sometimes, but I feel very lonely. I hope you can help me because I have already reached the limit of my capacity.”
Cardiologist Dr. Paola Rodriguez told Leila’s mother that surgery was necessary and referred her to Solidarity Bridge for support. With help from the Goff Gift Fund and the Solidarity Bridge Pediatric Heart Program Leila was scheduled for surgery at the Los Angeles Clinic in Cochabamba. Dr. Carlos Brockmann and Dr. Paola Rodriguez performed the successful surgery to repair Leila’s aortic arch. Leila was released from the hospital three days later. Two months after surgery social workers reported Leila was doing very well, without complications, and was able to perform daily tasks without getting tired. Her well-being is a great relief to Leila’s mother and all of her family.