For more ways to help the Santos family, please contact Arrepia, Brasil

The Santos Family Thanks
Dr. Kevin Strauss
Children's Institute
Children's Hospital
Ronald McDonald House
Arrepia, Brasil
The Brazil Nuts Club
Mr. Lawrence M. Lebowitz

The Santoses Also Thank
Pittsburgh Tribune Review
Sen. Arlen Specter
Pittsburgh Catholic Charities

Artur's Update
Hi everyone. Once again, the Santos family comes to thank you all for everything that you've done for us. As you may know, Idario is working under his new visa status and everything is going well. We thank God and the Neumeyers.

The Pioneer School and the Children's Institute of Pittsburgh are concerned about Artur's balance. Sometimes he falls down during school activities. We have contacted Shriner's Hospital in Erie, asking to have him evaluated as soon as possible. His school is recommending braces for his feet to help him with daily activities and to improve his balance as well. He will be reevaluated this April 10th.

On our last appointment at Shriner's Hospital, back in 2009, the doctors were unsure of the necessity of another operation on his legs. If he'll have to undergo a leg surgery, the doctors will probably cut his tibia (the inferior bone between foot and knee), which, will be very painful and require a long period for recovery. We are praying that God will allow the doctors to determine the best course of action.

Our family is praying every day, asking God to give him strength to move forward and never give up. He has been a tremendous kid. He surprises our family day by day. His Brother Vinicius is really coming along with Artur. They are playing together and having fun as much as they can. Artur still loves his vacuums.

The Children's Hospital is no longer providing his medicines. We are struggling to pay for them. However, our biggest concern about our beloved Artur is to find a way to cover him on a health insurance plan. Because our visa status we cannot get him enrolled in kids programs such as CHEAP. The only way to get him part of this program is get him a GreenCard (permanent Resident Status). To get a Green Card, it will cost around $8,000.00. Even if the health care reform had been approved, for a child with pre-existing condition, our family income is not enough. So, once again, we are asking if you have any ideas and/or any kind of support that can help us. We truly appreciate your generosity.

For any question, you can contact Mr. Santos through his email: idariobrasil@yahoo.com.br

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