From the Heart
As we close the holiday season and look forward to 2024, I’m hopeful instead of anxious. There’s a reason for that: my confidence in a God who cares deeply about orphans and a community that reflects that same value.
Bonhoeffer said, “…the person who loves those around them will create community.” I saw that in 2023 in Mexico and China. Many children and their families no longer feel alone because the PHF community supports them. XuanXuan and Jesús are just two examples.
In China, eleven-year-old XuanXuan is blind. Her mother attends school with her every day, reading everything to her. XuanXuan’s mother felt isolated and alone, raising a child with a disability. But then, our PHF community provided hope. Your caring donations facilitated a social worker and therapist to connect with XuanXuan and her mother. Now, XuanXuan’s mother does not feel alone, and her daughter receives much-needed therapy to improve her learning and independence.
In Mexico, three-year-old Jesús was able to travel to Mexico City to get life-saving care after suffering burns over 95% of his body. He is now back in Mérida, facing multiple joint surgeries because of the burns. Without a caring community – in Mexico and the US – Jesús would not be alive today. His young mother lost her husband in the fire, and your support is proving to her that she is not alone.
Thank you for being part of the caring PHF community. Your love, often sacrificial, for those around you and worldwide, shines brightly. Let’s continue to bring hope to the world together!
Feliz Navidad
Who loves a good Christmas party? In early December, the Polyfunctional School hosted a magnificent festival for children with disabilities at the Parque de la Paz. The celebration included entertainment for the children, a gift from Santa Claus for every child, and enough food for the children to take home to share with their families. Philip Hayden Foundation, through the support of our community, provided support for the party.
The children enjoyed an afternoon of fun and exuberant joy. The atmosphere was full of music and the sound of children’s laughter. Children with disabilities often feel invisible and overlooked. With your help, each child attending felt seen and loved, giving hope.
Medical Care in Mexico and China
Rosalia
Nine-year-old Rosalia may have a brain tumor, just like the one that took the life of her older sister, Fatima, last year. When her sister passed, Rosalia was tested to see if she had the same type of tumor. Unfortunately, Rosalia’s symptoms are increasing, and she needs imaging now. Her family cannot afford the imaging, but the outcome is much better if she begins treatment early. The PHF community will be providing the funds for Rosalia’s crucial imaging. Please keep this young girl and her family in your thoughts and prayers.
LongLong
LongLong is getting new AFOs, thanks to you! Why is this so exciting? LongLong has Cerebral Palsy, and his ankles are too weak for him to walk, even with a walker. Ankle Foot Orthotics are necessary for his mobility. He and his grandmother live in the countryside in China, and a wheelchair is just not practical. Last year, your donations provided a walker for LongLong – but he is still growing and needs new AFOs fitted to continue using his walker. Using the walker means he can accompany his grandmother outside, alleviating his isolation. Because of your generosity, the therapist at Hope Station can give LongLong good news at the next visit. LongLong and his grandmother do not feel so alone, thanks to you!