Mateo

Little Mateo is two years old. His short life has been a constant battle to survive and thrive. Due to loss of oxygen during birth, Mateo has severe brain damage, and he has spent the last two years in and out of the hospital. Despite those challenges, Mateo’s mother calls him her “gift from God” and cherishes every day he is with his loving family.

When he was born, doctors told the family that Mateo would not be able to respond. His mother says that Mateo has proven the doctors wrong. Although he has never smiled, when she holds him, he looks into her eyes, and she sees the smile in his eyes. He makes small noises that let her know he knows her. This makes her happy. Mateo cries when he is uncomfortable or unhappy, such as during therapy which he does NOT enjoy. His mother said it may sound strange, but the sound of her boy crying, which he was never supposed to be able to do, gives her joy. It tells her that he does feel things and that he is able to express his displeasure. Although he cannot move on his own, recently Mateo has started to sit alone without support, a huge milestone. In all of these small things, Mateo’s mother takes joy.

Mateo is the baby of a large family with four siblings. He is so loved—the object of cuddles and attention. Mateo loves kisses and protests with cries when his mother stops kissing him. He also likes music. Recently, the family planted a colorful tree in the backyard, a gift from the hospital. Mateo’s mother can’t take him many places, but she can take him under that tree. She likes knowing that the tree is a part of them, and the tree will continue to be there through the years.

Mateo’s mother talks about how he has changed her life. When she is tired and wants to give up, he inspires her to keep on her feet, to keep fighting and keep going like he does. She knows his life has purpose because he makes her stronger every day.

Recently, Project 4031 was able to pay a utility bill for the family. It is a small gesture, but Elizabet thanked us because “it was one less thing to worry about.” We also let her know that Mateo is on our prayer list, so our Prayer Partner volunteers are praying for Mateo, for her sweet gift from God, every week. The gift of prayer for little Mateo and his family was as valuable to them as any utility payment.