Mestre Nego Gato (Jose Sena) suffered a stroke in Salvador, Brazil on Monday, May 12. He is recovering but his speech is very impaired making it difficult for him to communicate and engage in normal daily activities. Gato spends half the year in America and half in Brazil. He only had medical insurance in America. We are asking your support to cover his hospital bill in Brazil but also for speech therapy that he will need to bring that dynamic smile back before returning to the United States. Since coming to America in 1984 he has shared African Brazilian Culture with thousands of students throughout the US, Europe and Japan through extensive Arts in Education Programs and Theatrical Performances. Having a son with downs syndrome he resonated with children and adults with special needs and at risk youth and gave performances and workshops at Gallaudet University, Center for Hearing and Communication, FL, Jafco Summer Camp, FL, and Smith Community Health Center, among many others. Gato has shared his love of his culture with so many so we are asking for those of you that have been touched by his spirit to help him in his time of need.