When Maddeline was born, doctors discovered that she had a disability. As soon as her mother found out, she decided to abandon her, leaving her in the care of Maddeline’s father and grandmother.
Madelin suffers from Angelman Syndrome, a genetic disorder that causes developmental disabilities and neurological problems. Doctors said Maddeline would never be able to walk, talk or develop skills like other children. After an arduous search for help for Maddeline, they found the CARES School, which is the School for Children with Special Needs that Oblates fund and run. They never imagined the impact it would have on their lives.
In Tijuana, it is very difficult to find safe spaces for children with special needs. In our special education program, the teachers made her feel safe and, in an environment, where she could learn. There, not only Maddeline learned valuable lessons, but also her father and grandmother, because they were very protective of her, so that she would not hurt herself for any reason.
One day, one of the teachers said to the grandmother: “Don’t overprotect her anymore, let her fly”. At that moment, they sensed that something wonderful was about to happen. When Maddeline walked out of the classroom, she walked into her grandmother’s arms. She had finally walked! Maddeline and her grandmother cried together, so excited that she had succeeded.
Since then, she has been slowly learning to talk, walk, run and express herself, filling her entire family with joy and pride. For them, the fact that she can walk and express herself is a great blessing, as they have great hope that Maddeline can be a more independent young lady.
Maddeline’s family is deeply grateful to the CARES program, which has completely changed their lives.
Let’s continue to pray for this program and for many more lives to be transformed through its work!
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