Back in October we told you about Marco Antonio, a teenage boy at Door of Faith Orphanage who had been diagnosed with a brain tumor. He was miraculously granted a U.S. visa and underwent surgery to remove the tumor in the fall. Sarah and Siloé volunteer Lauren accompanied him to Southern California for the procedure and for follow-up appointments. Though his eyesight has not returned in his left eye, he seemed to have recovered remarkably well. He is back in school and back in his dorm at the orphanage.
Sarah and Lauren took him back across the border last week for a follow-up MRI. They also used the occasion to surprise Marco with a trip to Big Bear, CA, where he sledded in the snow and bowled for the first time!
Unfortunately, the MRI revealed that Marco’s tumor has returned. It is about half the size of the original tumor and will need to be surgically removed again within a month. Sarah, who is spearheading Marco’s care, will take him up for a final appointment this week before surgery is scheduled.
Marco is understandably discouraged–as we all are, frankly. But we believe that God has great plans for Marco, and can use this trial for his Glory. Please join us in praying for Marco’s full recovery; that his tumor would be removed entirely during the next surgery and would not return; and that Marco would be encouraged and would experience the peace that only the Lord can give.
We will keep you posted about Marco during the coming weeks. Thank you for your prayer!
UPDATE – 2/3/12:
Marco underwent significant, invasive surgery today to remove the tumor for a second time. Though it was a trying, emotional and very long day, the surgeons reported that the procedure went better than they had hoped. At the time of this update, Marco is being kept asleep while he recovers in the ICU. They will continue to monitor him and probably allow him to awake sometime tomorrow (Saturday, Feb. 4). Thank you to everyone for your prayer and support! We’ll continue to update you on Marco’s progress here and on the Siloé Facebook page. Resting in God’s capable arms tonight… Blessings.
You must log in to post a comment.