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Help Emeterio, he needs emergency brain surgery

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My father-in-law, Emeterio, was recently diagnosed with a meningioma brain tumor after several months of deteriorating health and misdiagnoses.  He requires emergency surgery which is scheduled for next Wednesday, February 10, 2021.  

Emeterio was an otherwise healthy 70 year old man enjoying his retirement with his wife of 48 years, Antonia.  Emeterio and Antonia share one daughter whom they adore, my wife, Sadia.  Never in my life have I witnessed a more warm and loving relationship between parents and child.   Sadia talks to her parents at least once daily, but often multiple times per day despite the distance between them.  (Sadia’s parents are from Honduras while we reside in the U.S.)  Their calls are always filled with love, happiness, and well wishes.  She was especially close with her father, and describes him as her best friend growing up.  

A memory Sadia shared with me from her childhood:  As a child Sadia was very shy.  (It’s difficult for me to imagine as she is delightfully social now)  She was especially uncomfortable in athletic activities at school.  Some of the children would bully Sadia as she was not athletically gifted.  So Emeterio would visit his daughter’s school and take her place.  She always felt safe with her father.  She has fond memories of his patience as he helped her after school with her least favorite subject, math!  She describes him as honest, loyal, humble, a great listener, and a devout Christian.  She recalls many instances throughout her life where he placed himself at the disposal of others less fortunate.  And she’s forever grateful that he instilled these values in her, for his love, and the education that he provided.  

From my own experience I could see Emeterio was genuine from the moment I met him.  He had a firm handshake and when he spoke he looked directly into your eyes with a sincere interest.  He had a way of evoking calm to a person’s spirit.  Later he would tell Sadia he was very happy she married me, and that he felt very good about our future together.  I couldn’t have asked for better words. Family is all to Emeterio.  He always showed a keen interest in everything I was doing.  From time to time he would offer me subtle words of wisdom when I needed it most.  But most importantly he showed me love, by loving the people that were most important to me.  

Emeterio started displaying symptoms of a potential health problem in October 2020.  Their beloved family dog, Osita, had recently passed after 13 wonderful years on October 6.  Emeterio’s 1st symptoms were headaches, confusion, short-term memory loss, and general sadness.  Emeterio began to cry often while on the phone with Sadia.  Antonia was also reporting changes in his behavior.  These changes became alarming to all of us as they were very out of character.  Emeterio was always an honorable man with an undeniable quiet strength, and steady demeanor.  At first his symptoms were attributed to depression while mourning the passing of their family member, Osita.  However, his symptoms worsened and he began to experience physical ailments such as difficulty with speech and weakness in his limbs.  

From October 2020 - January 2021 Emeterio visited several doctors with varying diagnoses and treatments.  However, doctor visits became a difficult task as Emeterio lost his ability to drive.  Antonia does not have a driver’s license, and she struggled to take care of him.  She suffers from type 2 diabetes, anemia, and dizziness.  

On January 30, 2021 Sadia booked an emergency flight as Emeterio’s health continued to decline rapidly.  In the following days she would take Emeterio to numerous tests and appointments.  Sadia was able to secure an appointment with one of the top neurosurgeons in Honduras, Dr. Ena Miller.  At last they found the problem, a benign meningioma brain tumor which had grown so large it was putting pressure on the brain. 

While we are relieved to finally receive a correct diagnosis and treatment plan with a great doctor, we know the battle is not over.  We have now turned our attention to doing everything in our power to ensure a full recovery for Emeterio.  

The total cost of the surgery including hospital and surgeon is $20,000 - $25,000.  We have an initial quote from the hospital for $12,900, but we were informed to expect additional charges in the final quote.  The cost of the surgeon is $6,000.  The surgeon cost is separate from the hospital, and must be paid in full prior to the surgery 

Emeterio and Antonia do not have health insurance. In Honduras they do not have social security either. They only have Emeterio’s savings for monthly living expenses.  

For the man who gave all to his family and others his entire life, I humbly ask you to help me give back to him.

Thank you

Wesley

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    Co-organizers (2)

    Wesley Mailloux
    Organizer
    Remington, IN
    Sadia Rodriguez
    Co-organizer

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