(A-6) Status: Sponsored
Update September 20, 2013: Last Friday Pedro was walking near his house and suddenly became dizzy and fell and hurt his back. We went to check on him in his home and it was clear he was in a lot of pain so we took him to the doctor. Thankfully, Pedro did not break a rib but he did have some serious bruising that was causing him pain and making it difficult for him to even walk. The doctor gave him an injection and some medicines for the pain. On Monday we went to visit him again and take him back to the doctor. Pedro seemed to be doing better and was moving around easier. The doctor gave him another injection for the pain and some more medicine. He also gave Pedro some geriatric multi-vitamins. We are currently looking for $100 (US) to cover the costs of these visits and the medicines. The doctor would also like to figure out what is causing Pedro's dizzy spells and after taking Pedro's blood pressure, the doctor has requested an ECG. I will keep you updated on the status of this appointment.
For more stories and photos of the ancianos in the Feeding Program, please consider purchasing a book compiled of our participants. All profits go to the Elderly. You can preview the book here.
Pedro Julaju is a very sweet, gentle 75-year-old man. He never married and has no children, and has been completely alone since his brother died several years ago. He used to scrape by with odd jobs (carrying bundles and cleaning), but due to diminished health (severe leg pain after a fall, an eye problem for which we just sought treatment, stomach ailments, and general aging), Pedro has had a lot of trouble finding work. A local family gives him a place to sleep in the corner of a small shed, but for food Pedro must rely on the daily lunch provided by Mayan Families, the few tortillas that he can sometimes afford, and the kindness of neighbors.
Pedro is always happy to see us when we come to visit, and although he cannot hear very well and does not speak much Spanish (his primary language is Kaqhiquel), he always manages to communicate kind words, thanks, and affection. Your support would ensure that Pedro no longer goes hungry, allow for him to seek more comprehensive medical care and pain relief, and perhaps more simply put some light in Pedro’s life by letting him know that he is not alone.
How is Pedro doing? All healed? Let me know if you still need funds for his medical care, and please always feel free to email me about him.
ReplyDeleteThanks,
Ronnie Brodsky
ronnie [dot] brodsky [at] gmail [dot] com