From the Field: São José do Rio Preto, Brazil
July, 2010
Children’s HeartLink, along with a team of physicians and nurses from Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota and Mayo Clinic, recently completed a medical mission to Hospital de Base in São José do Rio Preto, Brazil. We were especially touched by an adorable toddler, Camila, and her mother and had the opportunity to witness their journey throughout the treatment process.
Six days after Camila was born, her parents realized she was having trouble breathing.
Her parents consulted a doctor and then a cardiologist, who eventually determined that a ventricular septal defect (VSD) was in need of repair.
Her young parents are both still in school, and the medical care became an extreme financial burden, requiring assistance from the Brazilian government. Camila and her mother traveled a few hours by bus from their city in order to see Dr. Croti and his team at Hospital de Base. When asked to describe her daughter, Camila’s mother said, “Before I was scared of many things, but every time I look at my baby, I’m not frightened any more.”
While the Children’s HeartLink team was there, Camila received surgery to repair her VSD. After surgery, Camila spent a few days in the ICU with her mom constantly by her side. When the Children's HeartLink team left, she was in the general care ward and doing well. Best of luck to Camila and her family!
Camila's story -- and the invaluable training, mentoring and learning that take place during Children's HeartLink medical missions -- wouldn't be possible without the generous support of people like you. Please help us to continue healing the hearts of children like Camila. You can make a contribution here.
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