Dear Friends, Don’t miss out on the opportunity to have fun! The deadline to register to play is today and we would love to see you there! Date: Saturday, July 20 |
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Friends,
Get ready for our inaugural event in Newport Beach! Join us for an exciting afternoon at our Pickleball Tournament on July 20th. It's more than just a friendly tournament—it's a chance to be a hero! By playing or watching, you'll directly support Mending Kids in our mission to provide life-saving surgical care to children in need.
Get ready for our inaugural event in Newport Beach! Join us for an exciting afternoon at our Pickleball Tournament on July 20th. It's more than just a friendly tournament—it's a chance to be a hero! By playing or watching, you'll directly support Mending Kids in our mission to provide life-saving surgical care to children in need.
Date: Saturday, July 20
Time: Registration and Pro class start at 3:00 PM, Games start at 4:00 PM
Location: Tennis Club Newport Beach
11 Clubhouse Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660
What to Expect:
🎾 Calling all tennis players new to pickleball! We'll have a pro there to show you the ropes.
So gather your friends, family, and colleagues, and join us! Our event promises fun, friendly competition, and community spirit, all for a great cause! Your registration fee helps fund medical missions and critical care, making a real difference in young lives.
- Whether you're a seasoned pro or a newbie, there's a spot for you.
- Delicious Tacos and Drinks
- Prizes: winning team will take home $500
- Family Fun
🎾 Calling all tennis players new to pickleball! We'll have a pro there to show you the ropes.
So gather your friends, family, and colleagues, and join us! Our event promises fun, friendly competition, and community spirit, all for a great cause! Your registration fee helps fund medical missions and critical care, making a real difference in young lives.
PROUDLY SPONSORED BY
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Dear Friends!
Are you ready to swing into some fun and make a difference while you’re at it? We’re thrilled to announce our upcoming Pickleball Tournament in Newport Beach and we can’t wait to see you there!
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just picked up a paddle, this tournament is for ALL playing levels. Come show off your skills, learn a few new ones, or simply hang out to watch! We know all that are playing will work up an appetite, so we’ve got a delicious taco bar and refreshing drinks, sponsored by our friends at Ghia.
We’ll have some friendly competition and prizes for the top players. But remember, the real winners are the kids we’re supporting!
Are you ready to swing into some fun and make a difference while you’re at it? We’re thrilled to announce our upcoming Pickleball Tournament in Newport Beach and we can’t wait to see you there!
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just picked up a paddle, this tournament is for ALL playing levels. Come show off your skills, learn a few new ones, or simply hang out to watch! We know all that are playing will work up an appetite, so we’ve got a delicious taco bar and refreshing drinks, sponsored by our friends at Ghia.
We’ll have some friendly competition and prizes for the top players. But remember, the real winners are the kids we’re supporting!
Date: Saturday, July 20th
Time: 3:00 PM
Registration and Pro class start at 3pm, Games start at 4pm
Location: Tennis Club Newport Beach
11 Clubhouse Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Every serve, volley, and rally at this event supports Mending Kids' mission to provide life-saving surgical care to children in need. So, while you’re having fun, you’re also making a big impact! Don’t miss out on the fun! Mark your calendars and get ready for an afternoon of pickleball, great food, and fantastic company. Rally your friends, family, and coworkers to join in too!
HEROES WHO ARE MAKING IT POSSIBLE
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Gearing up for Father’s Day, we're thrilled to introduce you to an extraordinary member of our Board and proud father of 8 (think Brady Bunch): Dr. Evan Zahn, a pediatric cardiologist with a heart of gold (and a knack for fixing tiny ones)! As the director of the Guerin Family Congenital Heart Program at the Smidt Heart Institute at Cedars-Sinai, he has led 8 cardiac missions to Tanzania and Mauritius, sharing his expertise and compassion, mending hundreds of hearts, and saving the lives of children in need.
Dr. Zahn's journey into pediatric cardiology started with a passion for helping the littlest patients overcome the biggest challenges. With every tiny heartbeat he mends, Dr. Zahn instills hope, love, and a profound sense of relief to families in need, restoring not only the future of his patients but also that of their families and communities. Thanks to his lifesaving work, hundreds more fathers will be celebrating Father’s Day with their children this year.
Dr. Zahn's journey into pediatric cardiology started with a passion for helping the littlest patients overcome the biggest challenges. With every tiny heartbeat he mends, Dr. Zahn instills hope, love, and a profound sense of relief to families in need, restoring not only the future of his patients but also that of their families and communities. Thanks to his lifesaving work, hundreds more fathers will be celebrating Father’s Day with their children this year.
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When he's not busy saving lives, Dr. Zahn knows the importance of balancing work with play, running marathons and spending time with his family, which keeps his own heart happy. His colleagues describe him as a brilliant doctor with contagious enthusiasm. Patients and families see him as a superhero bringing hope during difficult times. Here at Mending Kids, we know him as a member who brings valuable and wise insights, along with an inspiring presence, to our board meetings.
Join us in celebrating Dr. Evan Zahn, a true hero with a heart for making a difference. We're honored to have him on our Board and grateful for the incredible work he does every day.
Join us in celebrating Dr. Evan Zahn, a true hero with a heart for making a difference. We're honored to have him on our Board and grateful for the incredible work he does every day.
Get to know Dr. Zahn!
How many years have you been involved with Mending Kids & how many years have you been a board member?
I’ve been involved for 10 years, and a board member for 6 years..
How did you become involved with Mending Kids?
Soon after my family and I moved to LA, I bumped into someone at a fundraiser at one of my kid’s schools who thought I might be interested since I had done mission work in Russia and South America years before and it evolved organically from there.
What's the most impactful part of being involved with Mending Kids for you?
On an emotional level the most impactful part is being able to see all the beautiful smiles on the faces of the kids going home after we’ve mended their hearts. On a more global level, the most impactful part is knowing that we are training the local teams and impacting thousands of kids with heart disease who haven't even been born yet!
What is your idea of happiness?
My idea of happiness is having our whole giant crazy blended family together in one place laughing endlessly and enjoying each other... preferably poolside with a cocktail in hand
What are some things on your bucket list?
I must admit by this age and the amount of traveling I've done I've hit a bunch of them... Completing an Iron Man-check, diving with great white sharks-check, swimming with pink dolphins in the Amazon-check. That being said, there's always more... I'd like to go on a long trek through the mountains in Bhutan, master woodworking, live a quiet life in the mountains, and paraglide….
If you could have dinner with 3 people, past present or future who would they be?
My father and my two best friends Michael and Bruce who all left way too soon.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
"What could possibly go wrong? And a bunch of words I can't repeat here but suffice it to say I grew up in New York and we curse a lot.
Which talent would you most like to have?
I would give anything to play the guitar like Jerry Garcia
I’ve been involved for 10 years, and a board member for 6 years..
How did you become involved with Mending Kids?
Soon after my family and I moved to LA, I bumped into someone at a fundraiser at one of my kid’s schools who thought I might be interested since I had done mission work in Russia and South America years before and it evolved organically from there.
What's the most impactful part of being involved with Mending Kids for you?
On an emotional level the most impactful part is being able to see all the beautiful smiles on the faces of the kids going home after we’ve mended their hearts. On a more global level, the most impactful part is knowing that we are training the local teams and impacting thousands of kids with heart disease who haven't even been born yet!
What is your idea of happiness?
My idea of happiness is having our whole giant crazy blended family together in one place laughing endlessly and enjoying each other... preferably poolside with a cocktail in hand
What are some things on your bucket list?
I must admit by this age and the amount of traveling I've done I've hit a bunch of them... Completing an Iron Man-check, diving with great white sharks-check, swimming with pink dolphins in the Amazon-check. That being said, there's always more... I'd like to go on a long trek through the mountains in Bhutan, master woodworking, live a quiet life in the mountains, and paraglide….
If you could have dinner with 3 people, past present or future who would they be?
My father and my two best friends Michael and Bruce who all left way too soon.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
"What could possibly go wrong? And a bunch of words I can't repeat here but suffice it to say I grew up in New York and we curse a lot.
Which talent would you most like to have?
I would give anything to play the guitar like Jerry Garcia
Ready to support our mission?
Your donation empowers Dr. Zahn and the Mending Kids team to transform lives and restore futures around the world. Join us and be a part of the superhero squad making a lasting difference in children's lives!
Happy Father's Day!
Together, we are Mending Kids!
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Dear Friends,
At Mending Kids, our mission is to provide life-saving surgeries to children in need across the globe. Thanks to your generosity, we have already made an incredible impact, but there is still so much more we can achieve together.
Every day, many of us spend $5 or more on a cup of coffee. While it’s a small treat for ourselves, what if once a month that $5 could be transformed into something far more significant? By choosing to forgo that cup of coffee just once a month, you can help save a child’s life. That same $5 can contribute to a life-saving surgery for a child who otherwise would not have access to the medical care they desperately need.
At Mending Kids, our mission is to provide life-saving surgeries to children in need across the globe. Thanks to your generosity, we have already made an incredible impact, but there is still so much more we can achieve together.
Every day, many of us spend $5 or more on a cup of coffee. While it’s a small treat for ourselves, what if once a month that $5 could be transformed into something far more significant? By choosing to forgo that cup of coffee just once a month, you can help save a child’s life. That same $5 can contribute to a life-saving surgery for a child who otherwise would not have access to the medical care they desperately need.
Here’s how your small sacrifices can make a monumental difference:
- $5/month = Pain medication for one mission
- $25/month = Patients’ Travel Documents fees to get to surgical care
- $50/month = A plane ticket to Central America to send a volunteer surgeon to save a child
- $100/month = One orthopedic surgery for a patient in need
- $250/month = One life saving heart surgery for a child
If you are not yet a monthly donor, we invite you to join this incredible community. With your help, we can continue to expand our reach and provide vital medical care to even more children in need. Every donation, no matter the size, increases our impact to make a profound difference in the lives of these young patients.
Together, we are mending kids!
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There's an old saying, “if you want something done, ask a busy person. If you want something done well, ask a busy woman.” They must be referring to Alexis Crump, our Board Treasurer, and a supporter of Mending Kids for a decade. With over 25 years experience as a lawyer and a partner in the Los Angeles office of Lewis Brisbois, Alexis has amassed a comprehensive portfolio spanning private equity, municipal finance, real estate, and mergers and acquisitions.
Within Lewis Brisbois, Alexis holds influential roles, including Co-Chair of the Commercial Lending Practice, Vice Chair of the Corporate and Italy Practices, and Co-Chair of the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee. Her leadership extends beyond boardroom tables, guiding strategic initiatives and fostering inclusive environments.
Within Lewis Brisbois, Alexis holds influential roles, including Co-Chair of the Commercial Lending Practice, Vice Chair of the Corporate and Italy Practices, and Co-Chair of the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee. Her leadership extends beyond boardroom tables, guiding strategic initiatives and fostering inclusive environments.
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Alexis Crump is also a board member of Mainsprings, and on the Board of Advisors to the Jane Goodall Legacy Foundation Council for Hope, all of which are further testament to her dedication to uplift communities globally. Through her involvement with these organizations, Alexis contributes her expertise and passion to support sustainable solutions for vulnerable populations specifically in Tanzania and throughout the world, aligning seamlessly with Mending Kids' mission of healing. Her dual commitment underscores a profound dedication to making a meaningful impact on the lives of children, exemplifying the pursuit of changing the world for the better.
And on top of it all she’s a wife and mother to a son, who she considers her greatest work. Alexis Crump's is an invaluable asset to Mending Kids and we are honored to spotlight her dedication to our mission of healing children worldwide.
And on top of it all she’s a wife and mother to a son, who she considers her greatest work. Alexis Crump's is an invaluable asset to Mending Kids and we are honored to spotlight her dedication to our mission of healing children worldwide.
Join us in celebrating Alexis’ invaluable contributions
and learn a little more about her.
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How many years have you been involved with Mending Kids and how many years have you been a board member?
I’ve been involved with Mending Kids for approximately 10 years and on the board for almost 3 years.
Have been on any missions? If so, which one stands out? If you have not, which one would you like to take part in?
I attended a hometown mission, which was amazing. I was able to scrub up and observe in the operating rooms while a mis-formed ear was repaired and a mis-formed foot was reconstructed. These little darlings were so precious. I spoke to their parents, who were nervous, but hopeful in the waiting room. It’s quite an experience.
How did you become involved with Mending Kids?
Originally my husband and I were invited to a fundraiser through my son’s elementary school friend’s parents. Then as Isabelle Fox became more involved as Executive Director she pulled us in further with her amazing energy to change the world.
What’s the most impactful part of being involved with Mending Kids for you?
The best part of this journey with Mending Kids is hearing story after story of children who are going to live and children who are going to have better lives.
What is your idea of happiness?
True happiness for me would be living in a world in which people don’t hurt each other. If we could remove that factor, imagine where we’d be.
What are some things on your bucket list?
Seeing the Northern Lights.
If you could have dinner with 3 people, past present or future who would they be?
My grandparents and my great grandchildren.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
My friends and family would say I overuse the word `darling’, but to me it's so appropriate for specific special things.
Which talent would you most like to have?
Real magic.
I’ve been involved with Mending Kids for approximately 10 years and on the board for almost 3 years.
Have been on any missions? If so, which one stands out? If you have not, which one would you like to take part in?
I attended a hometown mission, which was amazing. I was able to scrub up and observe in the operating rooms while a mis-formed ear was repaired and a mis-formed foot was reconstructed. These little darlings were so precious. I spoke to their parents, who were nervous, but hopeful in the waiting room. It’s quite an experience.
How did you become involved with Mending Kids?
Originally my husband and I were invited to a fundraiser through my son’s elementary school friend’s parents. Then as Isabelle Fox became more involved as Executive Director she pulled us in further with her amazing energy to change the world.
What’s the most impactful part of being involved with Mending Kids for you?
The best part of this journey with Mending Kids is hearing story after story of children who are going to live and children who are going to have better lives.
What is your idea of happiness?
True happiness for me would be living in a world in which people don’t hurt each other. If we could remove that factor, imagine where we’d be.
What are some things on your bucket list?
Seeing the Northern Lights.
If you could have dinner with 3 people, past present or future who would they be?
My grandparents and my great grandchildren.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
My friends and family would say I overuse the word `darling’, but to me it's so appropriate for specific special things.
Which talent would you most like to have?
Real magic.
Together, we are mending kids!
Dear Friends,
We are excited to share with you our 2023 Annual Report, highlighting our impactful journey over the past year. This report details an overview of our mission, impact, and programs. With your support and generosity, we have been able to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families around the world. This year, we have already mended 227 children, bringing us closer towards our goal of mending a child a day and over 5,373 children to date.
We are excited to share with you our 2023 Annual Report, highlighting our impactful journey over the past year. This report details an overview of our mission, impact, and programs. With your support and generosity, we have been able to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families around the world. This year, we have already mended 227 children, bringing us closer towards our goal of mending a child a day and over 5,373 children to date.
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In this report, you'll discover:
1. Our Mission and Impact: Learn more about our mission to provide life-changing surgical care to children in need and the impact we've made in various communities.
2. Program Highlights: Explore our training, programs, and partnerships that have contributed to our success in advancing pediatric surgical care globally.
3. Financial Overview: Gain insight into our financial performance and transparency, demonstrating our commitment to accountability and stewardship.
We invite you to take a moment to review the 2023 Mending Kids Annual Report and celebrate the incredible milestones we've achieved together. Your continued support fuels our mission and enables us to create brighter futures for many more children in need.
1. Our Mission and Impact: Learn more about our mission to provide life-changing surgical care to children in need and the impact we've made in various communities.
2. Program Highlights: Explore our training, programs, and partnerships that have contributed to our success in advancing pediatric surgical care globally.
3. Financial Overview: Gain insight into our financial performance and transparency, demonstrating our commitment to accountability and stewardship.
We invite you to take a moment to review the 2023 Mending Kids Annual Report and celebrate the incredible milestones we've achieved together. Your continued support fuels our mission and enables us to create brighter futures for many more children in need.
Thank you for being a vital part of our journey. Together, we are truly making a difference.
How you can help
- Donate to our greatest need
- Become a monthly donor
- Make Medical or event in kind donation
- Consider a Legacy gift
- Follow us on social media @mendingkids
Together, we are Mending kids!
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Dear Mending Kids Family,
With Mother's Day just around the corner, our hearts turn to the incredible mothers who shape our lives with their boundless love and unwavering strength. Let's take a moment to celebrate not only the moms who hold us close, but also the unsung heroes—the mothers whose love knows no bounds as they journey with their children through the need for critical surgical care.
At Mending Kids, we've had the privilege of witnessing the remarkable courage and resilience of these mothers every single day. They are the ones who stand as fierce advocates for their children's access to the critical surgical care they need. As one of our amazing moms puts it,
With Mother's Day just around the corner, our hearts turn to the incredible mothers who shape our lives with their boundless love and unwavering strength. Let's take a moment to celebrate not only the moms who hold us close, but also the unsung heroes—the mothers whose love knows no bounds as they journey with their children through the need for critical surgical care.
At Mending Kids, we've had the privilege of witnessing the remarkable courage and resilience of these mothers every single day. They are the ones who stand as fierce advocates for their children's access to the critical surgical care they need. As one of our amazing moms puts it,
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Whether it's embarking on a journey across borders in search of life-saving treatment or facing the challenges of complex medical procedures, our moms epitomize love in its purest form. Another mom shares,
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This Mother's Day, we invite you to join us in honoring these extraordinary women and the profound impact they have on our world. Your support enables us to provide vital surgical care, ensuring that every child has the chance to thrive and grow, allowing mothers to cherish the gift of celebrating Mother's Day today and every day.
As we honor the beauty of motherhood, let's also remember to support the global community of mothers whose unwavering dedication and boundless love inspires us. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of children and families in need of critical surgical care, honoring mothers everywhere.
As we honor the beauty of motherhood, let's also remember to support the global community of mothers whose unwavering dedication and boundless love inspires us. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of children and families in need of critical surgical care, honoring mothers everywhere.
Wishing you and your loved ones a Mother's Day filled with warmth, gratitude, and the joy of knowing that you've made a positive impact on the lives of others. Together we are Mending Kids.
With love and appreciation,
Isabelle Fox
Executive Director
Mending Kids
With love and appreciation,
Isabelle Fox
Executive Director
Mending Kids
How you can help
- Donate to our greatest need
- Become a monthly donor
- Make Medical or event in kind donation
- Consider a Legacy gift
- Follow us on social media @mendingkids
Together, we are Mending Kids!
Board members play a pivotal role in shaping the direction and impact of Mending Kids. Our board community includes volunteers, industry leaders, and physicians, whose dedication, expertise, and commitment to our mission are the driving forces behind our ability to provide life-changing surgical care to children in need around the world. Their collective wisdom and passion fuel our efforts to make a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable children and their families, ensuring that our impact resonates far beyond each surgical mission.
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Dr. Ayal Willner, our Board President, stands as a beacon of excellence in otolaryngology, with an impressive career spanning over thirty years in Southern California. At SCENT–Southern California Ear, Nose, and Throat–he specializes in sinus and skull base surgery, with expertise in both pediatric and adult care.
Beyond his professional practice, Dr. Willner generously dedicates his time to Mending Kids. Leading over thirteen medical missions to underserved regions like Guatemala, he extends his expertise and compassion to transform the lives of countless children in need.
Beyond his professional practice, Dr. Willner generously dedicates his time to Mending Kids. Leading over thirteen medical missions to underserved regions like Guatemala, he extends his expertise and compassion to transform the lives of countless children in need.
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Closer to home, he has participated in many Hometown Missions. Dr. Willner remains unwavering in his commitment to providing essential care to youth in Southern California, embodying a dedication to improving lives without borders.
As Dr. Willner expresses, "I find fulfillment in making a difference, no matter how small," reflecting his steadfast commitment to service. Balancing the demands of his profession with a compassionate heart, he leaves an indelible mark on the world, one act of kindness at a time.
As Dr. Willner expresses, "I find fulfillment in making a difference, no matter how small," reflecting his steadfast commitment to service. Balancing the demands of his profession with a compassionate heart, he leaves an indelible mark on the world, one act of kindness at a time.
Get to know Dr. Willner:
How many years have you been involved with Mending Kids & how many years have you been a board member?
I’ve been with Mending Kids since 2013 so 11 years, my first mission was to Guatemala. It was a great learning experience as I’ve never been on a mission before that. I had gone to a Mending Kids fundraiser, I was inspired and told them I wanted to become involved, and they said “Great! What are you doing next month?” I was nervous at first, then I realized it's ok, it’s going to be great and it was! It was a four day mission, I had to get a team together and it was a great experience. I’ve been on the Board since 2018 when Isabelle started as the Executive Director; I became president this past August.
Have been on any missions? If so, which one stands out? If you have not, which one would you like to take part in?
The mission that stands out most to me is the site visit in Tanzania. I was impressed with how receptive the doctors are to developing a sustainable program, it really is wonderful. I’m looking forward to that day when they are fully up and running. Every mission is amazing, they are all different in their own ways; it is so humbling to help these kids. The first mission I took part in, in Guatemala, we operated over two days and saved 31 kids. It was great, I looked around and thought we could bring our own supplies and really take care of these kids.
What's the most impactful part of being involved with Mending Kids for you?
Being able to help save the lives of close to 1,000 children as team leader and team participant. That’s a lot of impact, a lot of lives saved. There’s a lot more to do, but that's a lot of impact.
What is your idea of happiness?
Happiness is the feeling that I have created a lasting positive impact on the world. There’s a Hebrew phrase that says, “it’s not for you to finish the job, neither is it for you to abandon it.” Happiness is being able to feel fulfilled. That’s why we go on missions, to leave the world a little better than how we found it.
What are some things on your bucket list?
Skiing a double black diamond when I'm 84. Starting a charitable trust. Watching lots of sunsets with Elisa.
If you could have dinner with 3 people, past present or future who would they be?
Moses, Ayn Rand, God.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
“What can I tell ya” and “That’s the story”
Which talent would you most like to have?
To create music.
I’ve been with Mending Kids since 2013 so 11 years, my first mission was to Guatemala. It was a great learning experience as I’ve never been on a mission before that. I had gone to a Mending Kids fundraiser, I was inspired and told them I wanted to become involved, and they said “Great! What are you doing next month?” I was nervous at first, then I realized it's ok, it’s going to be great and it was! It was a four day mission, I had to get a team together and it was a great experience. I’ve been on the Board since 2018 when Isabelle started as the Executive Director; I became president this past August.
Have been on any missions? If so, which one stands out? If you have not, which one would you like to take part in?
The mission that stands out most to me is the site visit in Tanzania. I was impressed with how receptive the doctors are to developing a sustainable program, it really is wonderful. I’m looking forward to that day when they are fully up and running. Every mission is amazing, they are all different in their own ways; it is so humbling to help these kids. The first mission I took part in, in Guatemala, we operated over two days and saved 31 kids. It was great, I looked around and thought we could bring our own supplies and really take care of these kids.
What's the most impactful part of being involved with Mending Kids for you?
Being able to help save the lives of close to 1,000 children as team leader and team participant. That’s a lot of impact, a lot of lives saved. There’s a lot more to do, but that's a lot of impact.
What is your idea of happiness?
Happiness is the feeling that I have created a lasting positive impact on the world. There’s a Hebrew phrase that says, “it’s not for you to finish the job, neither is it for you to abandon it.” Happiness is being able to feel fulfilled. That’s why we go on missions, to leave the world a little better than how we found it.
What are some things on your bucket list?
Skiing a double black diamond when I'm 84. Starting a charitable trust. Watching lots of sunsets with Elisa.
If you could have dinner with 3 people, past present or future who would they be?
Moses, Ayn Rand, God.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
“What can I tell ya” and “That’s the story”
Which talent would you most like to have?
To create music.
Ready to support our mission?
Your donation empowers Dr. Willner and the Mending Kids team to transform lives and restore futures around the world. Join us and be a part of the superhero squad making a lasting difference in children's lives!
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After 52 trips for Mending Kids, I like to think of myself as a grassroots (and grass-fed, now that I’m vegan) leader. Most everything that helps inform my decision-making has been learned from traveling on missions, meeting kids and their parents, talking to administrators, local doctors, and sometimes heads of state - asking and lots of negotiating. For better or for worse, my degree is in globe-trotting with a minor in pollinating relationships to build a network of partnerships.
I found myself in Nicaragua last week, reconnecting with our local partners after a ten-year absence - on my part. This was likely our 8th visit to Hospital La Mascota. The staff and our local cardiologist-host, Dr. Ramirez were ready for our arrival. When we showed up on Easter Sunday about 7 patients and their parents were waiting for us in the reception of the cardiology building. Forgoing services to pray that their children were selected for the week of procedures to correct their congenital anomalies and give them a second chance to live a long life. The fact that this medical trip was taking place during one of the most important holidays in Christendom did not go unnoticed. We came prepared with chocolate bunnies and candy to regale the kids with and proceeded to get to know them a bit to ease the atmosphere and help them feel more comfortable with us. I won’t lie that I was concerned there were only 7 patients. We hoped to help double that amount. Dr. Ramirez assured me that we would be screening more patients for the next three days and scheduling them accordingly. Per experience, I didn’t think that was the most effective way to do this but given the holiday, public transportation was cut back and other families were coming from far away, I was reminded that I have to trust the process and hope that they all show up when asked to.
I found myself in Nicaragua last week, reconnecting with our local partners after a ten-year absence - on my part. This was likely our 8th visit to Hospital La Mascota. The staff and our local cardiologist-host, Dr. Ramirez were ready for our arrival. When we showed up on Easter Sunday about 7 patients and their parents were waiting for us in the reception of the cardiology building. Forgoing services to pray that their children were selected for the week of procedures to correct their congenital anomalies and give them a second chance to live a long life. The fact that this medical trip was taking place during one of the most important holidays in Christendom did not go unnoticed. We came prepared with chocolate bunnies and candy to regale the kids with and proceeded to get to know them a bit to ease the atmosphere and help them feel more comfortable with us. I won’t lie that I was concerned there were only 7 patients. We hoped to help double that amount. Dr. Ramirez assured me that we would be screening more patients for the next three days and scheduling them accordingly. Per experience, I didn’t think that was the most effective way to do this but given the holiday, public transportation was cut back and other families were coming from far away, I was reminded that I have to trust the process and hope that they all show up when asked to.
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Dr. Ramirez kept asking the nurse if Viva Victoria had arrived. She was now almost 5 months old, she was screened at the end of 2023 with instructions for her mother to return today for the mission. She wasn’t there. We finished evaluations and planned the cases for the next three days. All 7 children scheduled were good candidates and put on the cath lab calendar. Monday went smoothly with 2 cases and room to screen 4 more patients in the afternoon, who were scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday. Still, Dr. Ramirez asked if Viva Victoria had arrived. She had not. So at this point, he called the hospital’s social services and asked them to go to Masaya, find the mother, and bring her back with her baby. We returned to our hotel to prepare for the next day's procedures. The following morning we stopped by Dr. Ramirez’s office. Viva Victoria was there with her mother, a cherubic young woman who was holding her. She was 16 and younger than our oldest patient. A minor raising a kid. I asked her if anyone else had come with her to support her and she shook her head. The baby was the size of a neonate. Her lips were blue and she was clearly in discomfort. The doctors reviewed her echo and quickly greenlit her for a procedure. Dr. Ramirez instructed the mom to come back the next day and that we would be scheduling Victoria for her procedure on Thursday. Her baby did not have much time. Wednesday rolled around, procedures went on and the mother and child had not shown up.
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Once again, Dr. Ramirez called social services and the baby and mom were brought to the hospital with surgery scheduled for Friday. When we asked her why she hadn’t come back as scheduled, she simply stated that she didn’t have the money to take the bus to get there. She was alone, with no support, no diaper bag, no money, and no food. When I delved further into her story, the answer was classic. Pregnant at 15, the father had left her and was not involved. She lived with her single mom and younger siblings in a house made of plastic walls and did not go to school, nor hold a job. We weren’t there to judge, but the scene and the struggles she faced as an individual, let alone as a teen mom in the second poorest country in Central America were pretty depressing. On Friday, before the time came to take Viva Victoria in for her procedure, we presented her mom with the consent form to allow us to treat her. The doctor went over everything and when it came time to sign, the mom shared that she couldn’t write or read. I always tell anyone who volunteers with us to remain calm and show poker-faced compassion when experiencing something that might prove shocking. We told her that signing her name would not be an issue, we would simply accept her thumbprint and a witness signature. I took a photo for good measure. The baby was crying because she was hungry and could not be breastfed because she was going to go under anesthesia. I asked her if she had a pacifier, but I already knew the answer. I found a sheet to cover the baby because the room was cold, and she didn’t have a blanket. Money or not, love is free, and it was apparent how much she had for her infant. I checked on her a short while later and gave her snacks and water reserved for the medical team. I hugged her and advised her to get some fresh air. Back in the Cath lab, Dr. Ramirez was relieved that Viva Victoria’s heart was being repaired. He doubted whether the mom understood how close she came to losing her; her stenosis was so advanced. She didn’t have another chance; she likely wouldn't have survived three more months, and no other Catheterization missions were scheduled for the near future.
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On Saturday, the team packed up to return; I stayed on. I had a vacation planned in Costa Rica starting on Sunday but I kept thinking about the 16-year-old without support and a fragile baby. She was raised in a shanty home with no means, no bathroom, and no education. I didn’t want to leave without visiting her one more time, to process this and consider how to help her, even if I didn’t have all the answers. I went to a store and bought a baby blanket, a pacifier, and a teether, along with a bit of money for her to buy a meal and bus fare to go home.
She was surprised to see me. The baby was asleep, unswaddled, and she sat in a chair, staring at her, lamenting that she couldn’t go home yet. I explained that because she lived outside the city, the doctor was taking extra precautions for the baby's health. I tried to explain how lucky she was that everything had timed out so well for Viva Victoria. I shared how much I loved her name and how she had chosen well by naming her Long Live Victoria.
I asked her what her plans were; to which she had none. I asked if she planned on sending her daughter to school; she wanted to. I suggested we look for support for her so she could attend school again, learn to read and write, and support Viva Victoria when she started learning. She smiled and nodded (I recognized the placating). I asked if she had dreams when she was young and what they were; she said she wanted to be a police officer.
She was surprised to see me. The baby was asleep, unswaddled, and she sat in a chair, staring at her, lamenting that she couldn’t go home yet. I explained that because she lived outside the city, the doctor was taking extra precautions for the baby's health. I tried to explain how lucky she was that everything had timed out so well for Viva Victoria. I shared how much I loved her name and how she had chosen well by naming her Long Live Victoria.
I asked her what her plans were; to which she had none. I asked if she planned on sending her daughter to school; she wanted to. I suggested we look for support for her so she could attend school again, learn to read and write, and support Viva Victoria when she started learning. She smiled and nodded (I recognized the placating). I asked if she had dreams when she was young and what they were; she said she wanted to be a police officer.
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I reminded her that Viva Victoria was a survivor, and she had won the lottery when we mended her child; this had to mean something great for her. That this was a new door she could go through. Yes, the challenges were there. Yes, the road would be long, but she had the power to change things for herself and her child, for the better. I did my best to ensure she didn’t feel like I was scolding her. I gave her a parting embrace, took her information on WhatsApp, and told her I would be in touch. It’s been several days now, and I am no longer in Managua, but I still think about how this mission was mending kids’ kids.
May courage and determination abound, may Viva Victoria have a long life ahead. And may this all be for a reason, though the path is not yet revealed.
Note to self: find an organization to help baby-mom in Nicaragua.
- Isabelle Fox,
Executive Director
May courage and determination abound, may Viva Victoria have a long life ahead. And may this all be for a reason, though the path is not yet revealed.
Note to self: find an organization to help baby-mom in Nicaragua.
- Isabelle Fox,
Executive Director
Together, we are Mending Kids
