We Are Family

47 donors

$2,855 raised of $5K

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We Are Family

Kim Medina is organizing this fundraiser.

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My name is Meliza and I am 13 years old. I am adopted, along with my brother Pablo, from Guatemala by our lovely mother Kimberly. I met my birthmother for the first time when I was eight years old. We are very close and I feel lucky to be in contact with her. My mom, my brother and I try to visit Guatemala every other year and so far we have been able to visit three times, including the trip we took last summer. That trip was different from the rest. A few months before our trip my birthmom, Salinda, called to tell us she had been diagnosed with breast cancer. We were all very shocked to hear this because she is so young and healthy and we were also very worried. Salinda was worried too and she had been afraid to share the news because she didn’t want me to worry.

Our visit to Guatemala was amazing and I was hopeful that it kept Salinda’s mind off the hard time that she and her family were going through. Salinda’s husband, Cesar, works as a mechanic to support a household of six. When he and Salinda met he was raising his four children as a single parent. During our visit we went with Salinda to the hospital for her treatment. She takes the bus an hour each way at least three days a week. Sometimes there are more trips because the equipment at the hospital often doesn’t work.

Now we are back home and we try to send money as often as we can but Salinda’s medical bills have put the family in debt and we know what we are able to give is not enough. We are able to keep in contact with her by phone and texts and hope that brightens her day. She recently has given us the news that the main public hospital (which she goes to) in Guatemala has lost money due to the new President, which means her treatment options have gotten much worse.

from my Mom (Kim):

We are confident that Salinda will make a full recovery. She is a warm, gentle and kind person who, when she is able, works hard to provide for her family. There are no words to adequately describe the feelings I have for Meliza's birthmom. Without her I obviously would not have the privilege of raising this amazing kid. While I generally avoid any kind of fundraising like the plague and have managed to avoid all manner of school candy sales, run-walk-dance-zumba-athons, etc., I can't in good conscience refrain from making this small effort to assist when just a little help could make such a big difference. I hope you understand, that you give what you can, and know that we are extremely greatful to have such an amazing group of friends and family to reach out to.

Much love,

Kim & Meliza

Salinda & Meliza 7/2015