Help Nico: Medical, Therapy & Education Support for a Brave Boy in Ecuador

Nico was born with Down syndrome and a serious congenital heart defect. He has already undergone open-heart surgery and continues to need ongoing therapies, medical care, and educational support. We’re raising funds to help cover these essential costs so he can grow, learn, and live a joyful, dignified life.

Nico’s Story

Meet Nicolás—Nico, a bright, loving 13-year-old boy from Ecuador with a smile that lights up every room.

Nico was born on April 25, 2012, after a difficult pregnancy. Soon after birth, his family learned he had Down syndrome (Trisomy 21). Not long after, they received even harder news: Nico had a congenital heart defect (atrial septal defect) and pulmonary hypertension, conditions that would require open-heart surgery before his second birthday.

Those early months were filled with hospital visits, tests, and fear. When the time came, Nico faced his surgery with incredible bravery, and he made it through. But the journey didn’t end there.

Nico Today

Nico is full of life, love, and curiosity. He works hard every single day to overcome challenges most kids never face.

He requires ongoing:

• Heart and medical check-ups

• Speech therapy

• Occupational therapy

• Physical therapy

• Educational support and learning accommodations

• Medications, lab work, and specialty evaluations

His family has done everything they can since the day he was born, but as Nico grows, his needs—and the expenses—are becoming even greater. His mother can’t work elsewhere because she attends school and therapies with him every day, and also needs to care for him at home, leaving the family with very little income to cover these essential needs.

Why We Need Your Help

Nico’s family in Ecuador does absolutely everything they can, but the financial strain has become overwhelming. This fundraiser was created to help Nico continue getting the care and learning support he deserves.

How Your Donation Helps

Your generosity will support:

• Medical expenses and specialist visits

• Speech, occupational, physical, and developmental therapies

• Follow-up testing and heart monitoring

• Educational tools, tutoring, and adaptive learning materials

• Transportation to medical and school appointments

Who Is Organizing This Campaign

This fundraiser is organized by a U.S. citizen living in Ecuador who personally knows Nico and his family. Every dollar raised will go directly to Nico’s care, with full transparency and accountability.

How You Can Help

1. Donate – Any amount makes a real difference.

2. Share – Spread the word with friends, family, and on social media.

3. Encourage – Leave a message for Nico and his family. Your words mean more than you know.

From Nico's Family

Thank you for reading Nico's story, for worrying and for joining us. Your kindness gives Nico the opportunity to grow, learn and get ahead. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts