We Can Build An Orphanage

Estania was born on July 30th, 2000, in the town of Cyvadier just east of the coast of Jacmel. After her mother tragically passed away from AIDS, Estania was left in the care of her 21 year old sister.

While in the care of her sister Estania became very ill. She was having a terrible time breathing and began to cough up blood. Her sister took her to Hospital St. Michel for a diagnosis. Estania had tuberculosis (TB) and was HIV+. Due to the fear surrounding these diseases when Estania’s sister heard this news, she cast her aside claiming she was dirty and wanted nothing to do with her.

In January 2008, Estania’s older sister abandoned her and Estania came to live with us at WeCanBuildanOrphanage.com. We immediately placed her on oxygen and started her on an anti-TB treatment. Alone and Broken hearted we were forced to keep Estania quarantined and away from the other kids for two months until the TB treatment was over.

Once the TB treatment was over we were able to place her on the ARV meds. Estania responded to the medication brilliantly! She started to gain weight and went from 29 lb to 43 lb.  There was only one problem, she was still short of breath and tired very easily.

We took Estania to a heart specialist in Port au Prince, the capital of Haiti. There the Doctor concluded that Estania heart was enlarged and had to work harder than normal to pump blood. He told us that this condition is very common in children born with HIV. He sent us home with medication to help her heart, and her shortness of breath has improved as well.

Estania had some schooling before coming to live with us but was a bit behind. She has now caught up and attends school with her two new friends Youseline and Melinda. She enjoys playing with puzzles, dancing, and now photography. Estania’s emotional wounds are beginning to heal, and she is always up for a cuddle. Estania today is one of the sweetest girls and a real pleasure to be around.

If you would like to learn more and get involved please click here: WeCanBuildanOrphanage.com.