Case studies:  Edith  María  Julio

Edith is an 8 year old girl with the diagnosis of epilepsy (seizure disorder). She is also the younger sister of Rosa Vera Marino, for whom the fund is named. In the spring of 2005, shortly after The Rosa Vera Fund had its official beginning, Edith began to have a type of seizure in which she would suddenly drop stiffly to the ground. At first this happened every couple of months, but eventually was occurring weekly, then daily, and she was unable to even attend school.

Arrangements were made for Edith to be evaluated by a neurologist ($3). Diagnostic studies ($25) confirmed that she does in fact have epilepsy. Anti-seizure medications ($1.30/wk) were initiated with frequent follow-up with the neurologist. Now without a single seizure episode in the past year, Edith is being weaned from her medication.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this intervention is that the parents sought us out, despite the unfortunate outcome of her sister’s surgery. From our perspective, it was a particular pleasure to enroll Edith in the RVF.

Family Economic Situation: Marginal but stable.
Edith's parents (Cristobal, 38; Ines, 37) sell brooms in the town market. The family also runs a tiny "general store" from their home, which they own. Edith also lives with her 3 surviving siblings (Maria, 18; Sulma, 12; Beba, 6) in a three room, concrete floored brick home. Diet is nutritious.

Family Social Situation
Edith's parents emigrated to Montero from the mountainous west almost 20 years ago. Ines primarily speaks Quechua; Cristobal has significant health problems of his own.

RVF Contribution
$30 for the initial workup (neurologist, electroencephalogram), then 50% of all costs thereafter (medications, periodic neurologist appointments, travel) RVF TOTAL COST ~ $20/ year

Family's Contribution
Remaining 50% of expenses