A Father’s Love Is Stronger Than His Illness

Julio is 62 years old. Twelve years ago, he was diagnosed with diabetes, a disease that has deeply impacted his life. As a result of complications, one of his toes had to be amputated, and since then he has faced ongoing health challenges.
He has been hospitalized several times. He recalls arriving at a health center once with a hemoglobin level of only 5.5, a condition that put his life at risk. Today, he suffers from wounds on his foot and bilateral cataracts, which have severely affected his vision and prevent him from working as a carpenter, the trade that supported his family for many years. He now walks with a cane and struggles daily with pain and physical limitations.
Doctors have told him that surgery could improve his eyesight, but it would require traveling to Lima, and Julio does not have the financial resources to make it possible

In addition to his health problems, Julio carries a tremendous responsibility. A year ago, his wife left the family, leaving him alone to care for their four children, who depend entirely on him. While he goes out in search of work to provide food for his family, his oldest daughter, only 13 years old, takes care of her younger siblings, cooks, and washes clothes. Julio knows this is a heavy burden for his daughter, and it deeply saddens him.
The family does not have a home of their own. They currently live in a house they watch over in exchange for being allowed to stay there. However, the living conditions are difficult. The damp floors often cause the children to become sick. Although they attend school, until recently they had been going in regular clothes because Julio could not afford to buy their school uniforms.
Despite all these challenges, Julio has not lost his determination to move forward. Because of his health condition and the physical limitations that prevent him from doing demanding labor, he dreams of starting a small business selling snacks and other items at a local school. He believes this type of work would be less physically demanding and would allow him to spend more time caring for and supporting his children as they grow.

Julio came to our clinic after being referred by a neighbor. As we listened to his story, we realized how much he had been carrying on his own for so many years. He had stopped his medical treatment because he could no longer afford his medications, and each day it became harder for him to keep going.
Thanks to the AMOR Projects team, we were able to provide food for Julio and his children, purchase the medications he needed to resume his treatment, and buy shoes for the children.
The challenges have not disappeared. The illness, the pain, and the financial struggles remain. But Julio is no longer facing them alone. We will continue to support him, visit him, and pray for him and his family as they walk through this difficult season.
None of this would have been possible without the support of those who make this mission possible. Thank you for being part of this project of love that brings hope, care, and support to those who need it most.