Healing a Heart in Honduras - Surgery for a Child

Imagine being a 15 year old girl playing soccer with your friends, and suddenly lacking the ability to breathe. Now imagine you are in one of the most poverty-stricken countries in the western hemisphere, knowing that adequate medical care is extremely difficult to get. This is Carolina's story. And she desperately needs your help.

In June of 2021, 15 year old Sherlyn Carolina Aguilar Lopez was outside running around with her friends on the soccer field, when all of sudden, she couldn't take a breath. She spent a few minutes resting on a bench, and the moment passed. Later that evening, it happened again, and she was rushed to the emergency room in El Progreso, Honduras. Unfortunately, there were no cardiologists at this hospital, so they sent to her to San Pedro Sula, where the only cardiologist was on vacation. After a brief treatment of oxygen, Carolina was given the okay to return home, but the problem continued. Eventually, after multiple diagnostic exams, she was diagnosed with Ventricular Tachycardia, or in other terms, a heart arrhythmia. The doctors put her on a medication to control her irregular heartbeat, which was causing the episodes, but also discovered this was an undiagnosed medical problem she had from birth.

While the medication is sufficient and effective for now, Carolina would best be treated with surgery to repair the damaged heart valve, so she can go back to living a normal adolescent life. This medication can also have long-term side effects and damage her organs. Carolina misses playing soccer, enjoying time with her friends and family, and wants to continue her studies so she can eventually reach her goal of running a business.

The plan is for Carolina to have the surgery in February, and with the support of a visiting medical brigade, the cost will be somewhat less than originally anticipated. However, expenses for transportation to and from San Pedro Sula, hospital stay, and treatment are still high. Please donate to this campaign or send your donation via Venmo to @ayudar504, so we can support Carolina on her path to recovery. Your contribution of any amount is extremely appreciated.

Thank you, and wishing you and your family a wonderful and safe holiday season!