May, 2024
It’s not just children we treat and benefit from surgery; adults like René Muñoz, who is 52 years old, also find life-changing support. René, a devoted family man and hardworking farmer from an isolated valley of Jalapa, has faced challenges since birth due to a unilateral cleft lip and palate. His condition made communication difficult and led to frequent respiratory infections. Discrimination prevented him from attending school, limiting his job opportunities.
As a malnourished baby, René didn’t qualify for surgery. Over time, he developed a fear of corrective procedures and resigned himself to his condition. However, his neighbor and friend, Byron Reynoso, offered a glimmer of hope by suggesting treatment in Antigua Guatemala through Partner for Surgery.
With Byron’s encouragement, René traveled to Antigua, where he met Dina Salguero, a compassionate health promoter from Partner for Surgery. Dina guided René through consultations, evaluations, and surgery preparations. After a few months of overcoming obstacles like hypertension, René underwent a successful operation led by Dr. Christopher Tolan of the Love Without Boundaries team.
Though his recovery journey continues, René’s story showcases resilience and the transformative impact of community support. With Byron, Dina, and the Partner for Surgery team standing by his side, René now has a reason to smile again, proving that courage and hope can conquer any challenge.
