Jossyan | 6 months old | 2013
Upon learning that her newborn son had a cleft lip and cleft palate, Jeimy Castor knew she would have to do a lot to help him.
Jossyan received his first surgery in August 2012, at 6 months old, during which the cleft in his upper lip was repaired. Our little patient returned for the Interplast South medical brigade in February, where he underwent surgery to repair his palate. He would later need a third surgery to correct his gum. Throughout this lengthy process, Jossyan receives medical evaluations to monitor his progress and prepare him for his next surgery.
Jossyan, his mother, and his grandmother live in Jutiapa, Atlántida. They moved from San Pedro Sula to Jutiapa, where the cost of living is lower. His grandmother supports the family. She does laundry and cleans the homes of wealthier families living in the small town. Every time they come for a medical appointment, they make a four-hour journey, leaving before dawn.
Thanks to the support of our volunteer surgeons from the United States and our national and international donors, we can offer children like Jossyan the opportunity for a better life.
Follow-up
On February 17, 2013, Jossyan came with his grandmother for his appointment with the American doctors. When we saw him, we could hardly recognize him because of how much he had changed. It was incredible, and he looked so handsome!
We asked his grandmother what had worried her before his successful surgery. She told us that her little boy had difficulty eating: “He would seem to choke because of his open palate. Liquids would come out through his nose.”
After this surgery, Jossyan is now able to drink liquids without any problems. We also asked her how she felt about her grandson’s congenital condition when he was born. She told us about her great concern after he spent 20 days in the hospital. They almost lost hope that everything would be all right. Now, she cannot believe how handsome her little boy is. Her wish is for her grandson to be able to eat everything.
Jossyan’s family continues to face financial difficulties, especially when it comes to paying for the bus fare each time they come for an appointment.
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