I have some great news to share!  Many of you will remember Piedad Batalla.  She is the young Colombian woman who we initially met in February of 2008.  She has lymphedema praecox – which had reached the severe stage of lymphostatic elephantiasis.

Piedad and me at the Clinic

My twin sister – Susan – is a physical therapist with specialty training in the treatment of lymphedema.  God does work things out perfectly – doesn’t He?  We made an effort to treat Piedad’s lymphedema with repeated visits from Susan over a period of about two years – and we made great progress.  Piedad lost over 100 pounds, and her physical condition was greatly improved.  Unfortunately we were never able to complete her treatment – to achieve the maximum improvement that we know is possible in her case.  Although Piedad did a great job with self-treatment with the techniques Susan taught her – it just wasn’t enough, considering the severity of her condition.

Susan treating Piedad in 2008

We tried to get Piedad a visa so that she could travel to the United States and finish her treatment – but we were unsuccessful.  Now – a Colombian physician has taken interest in her case, and he, along with various colleagues, have been able to help Piedad obtain a visa for her medical treatment!

Piedad and Susan are now deciding when would be the best dates for her to travel.  We have a lot of details to work out – but we are thrilled that this dream has become a reality!

If you have questions about Piedad’s care, or would like to know how you can help – drop me a note at scifrespletcher@yahoo.com

Piedad’s daughter, Susan Abigail