Violeta's Burn Recovery

Esperanza Ana Violeta Donoso Arenas Philipp. 

Known to me as Banana. 

Gofundme requires that we identify how we know the recipient of the funds for transparency and authenticity.  Me, Virginia Johns, I fell in love with Banana before i knew her.  I became friends with her mother, my beloved friend, Heather Philip at first sight over 10 years ago.  When i looked into Banana's eyes in person, there was nothing to do but fall in love all over again.  She is an extraordinary soul.  When Diane and I met her father, Pablo, he too, there is no option but to adore him.  

This past weekend, Violeta was badly burned by scalding water.  15% of her body.  She has now undergone 1 skin graft to her chest and right arm.  It was worse than the doctors thought but they expect it to heal well.  On Monday they will determine the next course of action.  The family will remain at the Michigan Hospital for approx. 1-2 more weeks.   They need all the help that is possible.

This is written for all of you about Violeta by my partner, Diane Bedel.

“I’m not who you see at first glance”

Violeta, her name sake after a flower. She grows fierce no matter the storm!  The travels were many as she grew inside her Momma, like a flower waiting to have its first bloom. This is how Violeta should be seen. She’s strong, delicate, beautiful, and precious. She perseveres no matter the challenge.

We hadn’t met Violeta yet, she traveled in her momma's belly from Chile to the states in April 2012 to be present for our wedding. It was a long arduous trip for both Heather, and her baby. That’s how our dear friend, Heather, showed up for us.

In July 2012, Violeta was born.  In November, we boarded a plane to Chile to meet Violeta!! We all have watched her grow through the stories and pictures. It’s been said that the violet connotes a love that is delicate.  This we find true for Violeta and her family.

Some might only see a daunting future and scars for this precious angel after hearing how boiling water fell upon her delicate three year old body. Especially learning how she lies in the burn unit awaiting surgeries and procedures toward a road to recovery.

“I’m not who you see at first glance”

We want Violeta to be seen as she sees herself. Beautiful soft skin that has adorned her little body since birth, a passionate soul filled with grace and spunk, intelligent, compassionate, and full of life. Being able to laugh, play and participate. Being loved, accepted and looked upon with delight.

“I’m not who you see at first glance”

There’s a long road ahead to recovery for this beautiful child of our world. She will need help financially and emotionally. Your first glance into Violeta’s eyes should be the picture she has painted from and with her soul, her journey, not the obstacle she presently faces….then the soft beautiful skin that hides a story of strength seen next.  Please help fund toward the medical expenses, after care and additional needs that will accumulate for our little flower…….Violeta and her beloved parents, Heather and Pablo.

Access to all funds is directly allocated to Heather Philipp to be used by the Philipp-Arenas family at their discretion for Violeta's welfare.