Medical Expenses

Hi, my name is Coach Chris Tofanelli. I coach one of the JV2 boys soccer teams at Linn-Mar High School in Marion, Iowa. One of my players, Francisco Perez-Cobo, broke his hip and severely sprained his ankle during a game against Washington High School the last week of the season. Francisco is sixteen years old. He is a great kid and a nice young man who is from Guatemala and is a documented, legal immigrant who came to this country over a year ago. Francisco always gives 110% on the soccer field; he takes nothing for granted. Playing soccer has also allowed him to make many new friends, which has helped ease the transition.

When Francisco first came here he couldn't speak a word of English, let alone read and write it. Since he has been here, he has worked hard to learn the language and succeed in his studies at Linn-Mar. Linn-Mar has provided the opportunity for him to do so with their excellent education program for English Language Learner students.

Francisco lives with his guardian, Ayla, and doesn't have medical insurance, as he hasn't been in the country long enough to qualify for it yet. Ayla has made several trips to Guatemala as a missionary for her church, where she met Francisco and his family. Francisco's mother, Margarita, wanted him to live here - apart from her and his family - so that he could have the opportunities for education and a better life that he wouldn't have in Guatemala. Giving up her child was a heart-wrenching decision, but she made it based on what is best for him. Ayla graciously agreed to take him in and has provided a stable home and Christian upbringing for Francisco. Francisco stays in touch with his family in Guatemala through phone calls.

To date Francisco's medical bills have exceeded $1,000, and are expected to climb over $2,000 with more visits to doctors and physical therapy as he works through his injuries and heals. Please consider donating to this young man's recovery and future. Anything helps.