BajaNomad - ITZEL'S HEART OPERATION... WE DID IT... SUCCESS!!! *** UPDATE & PHOTO ***

ITZEL'S HEART OPERATION... WE DID IT... SUCCESS!!! * UPDATE & PHOTO *

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BajaCactus - 10-31-2010 at 11:26 PM

*** UPDATE ***...November 5th, 2010... Commitment has made arrangements to have Itzel's Heart operation in Las Vegas on November 16th, 2010... she needs our help!!!... Please see A-Commit's post on page 2.

******

Hello my friends,

I apologize for approaching all of you with this situation, but I believe the cause is worth it...

You see, a few months ago, in one of my many trips to El Rosario, I stumble upon this very pretty 5 year old little girl, named Itzel... I noticed she did not have the usual energy of a child her age and that sometimes she had problems breathing, so after asking her mom, a very bright, hardworking and nice lady, I found out that she had been doing her best effort, within her possibilities, to have Itzel treated and cured, mainly through IMSS services (Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social), which is the best she can afford.

The problem was that, after 5 years of visits to the doctor, there was no change in Itzel's condition and on her last visit (July 2010), she was given another appointment for March 2011!!.

So, I asked Itzel's mom if I could see her medical files or whatever she had... and after a few minutes of reading them, I realized there were at least three very different diagnosis, all heart related... being the last one "reumatic fever", and for which Itzel had been taking antibiotics shots every 21 days, for the past two years (last doctor visit she was prescribed more shots until the next appointment, on March 2011).

I am no doctor of course, but all these did not seemed right... and in good conscience, I could not just watch and do nothing about it... but this problem was completely out of my league.

Then I remember that a very dear friend of mine, Andy Schouten, had a program in place to assist and help people in Baja, through his non-profit foundation called Commitment, Inc... and that in the past he had helped children with heart problems... so, I called him to see if he could do anything to help out.

After explaining the situation to him, he told me what needed to be done and within a week he arranged for a Pediatric Cardiologist to see Itzel in Tijuana.

I then coordinated for Itzel to come to Tijuana and, after a the specialist examined her, they found the real problem... two actually, but the one that needs to be act on immediately is a "Coartation of the aorta". Fortunately, there is a procedure that can cure that... but a very expensive one (in Tijuana they quoted us over $18,000 Dlls).

If Itzel is not attended soon, she may not have more than 3-5 year to live.

That is where we may come in and help... I would like to request the assistance of anyone who could help us raise the funds needed to give Itzel the opportunity of a normal life.

We could do this by donating any amount to Andy's organization... he is fully registered as a non profit organization in the States. I fully trust him since I have personally seen him in action and I have even helped Andy in the past to deliver goods, medicine and supplies to families in the San Quintin area.... Andy is very passionate and committed when it comes to help anyone in need.

I will ask Andy to come into this thread, so he can present to all of you what Commitment, Inc. is, and explain in more detail Itzel's condition and what is needed to treat her, since we have been working on these for a couple of months now and we have advanced a lot since then... he is obviously more well versed in English than me.

I know the economy is very low right now, but if we join together, I am sure we can give Itzel the gift of life...

Thanks my friends... and I hope we can make a difference for this little girl.

Antonio M.
BajaCactus

[Edited on 11-19-2010 by BajaCactus]

woody with a view - 11-1-2010 at 05:29 AM

after all the good Nomad's did for the family of our dear friend Elsa (La Mijita) you can count on support from us, Antonio.

shari - 11-1-2010 at 06:54 AM

gracias amigo for sharing your concern for this little angel. I have said it before here...with the thousands of members....if even half of us gave $10-$20....that would go a long way...waiting for the paypal link.

good luck Antonio & Andy and of course little Itzel...who deserves this chance.

DENNIS - 11-1-2010 at 07:49 AM

How about the Shriners organization that Skeet is always referring to? Are they available?

DianaT - 11-1-2010 at 08:30 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS
How about the Shriners organization that Skeet is always referring to? Are they available?

Good thought, Dennis. When we were living in Guatemala we worked with a woman who was successful in sending some children with birth defects and or bad burns to the Shriners in Los Angeles and Texas. Don't know what was required, but maybe Skeet does.

Meantime, we will be watching for the paypal.

Diana

durrelllrobert - 11-1-2010 at 08:43 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS
How about the Shriners organization that Skeet is always referring to? Are they available?

Can she get papers to go to US? I understand that the Special Cases desk in the ICE office at San Ysidro issues temporary permits for Mexican citizens to go into the US for certain emergencies. I will donate to this cause via PayPal once account is set up.

[Edited on 11-1-2010 by durrelllrobert]

TERRIFIC Organization!

Baja Bucko - 11-1-2010 at 08:48 AM

Andy Schouten's organization is terrific and has medically helped hundreds of people in Baja. Andy has held on to a fulltime job AND at the same time spends the rest of his daily hours doing stuff for the people of Baja---there are many organizations out there who raise funds for these types of things but with Andy-you know that every single penny (or peso!) is going to where you want it-getting medical care for someone who really needs it in Baja.

He recently made it possible for a certain little guy w cerebral palsey from Vizcaino to be seen at Shriners in Los Angeles and that took over 6 months to happen!!! (By the way Shriner's told us that they do burns and orthopedics-not CP etc but they at least examined the boy and we got a diagnosis!). Talk to anybody in the San Franciscos and you will find so many families there that have been touched by Andy's efforts. Believe me when I say lives have been saved---that is no joke!!!!

So yes, there are many groups to support in helping those in Baja with medical needs but by donating to Committment.org-Andy's organization you will know that you are really helping in getting these folks medical care.

Also with the many people living with diabetes down there it is a problem for most to obtain those pesky test strips. Andy can use money AND if anyone wants to donate a few boxes of diabetic test strips he needs the Reli-On brand from Walmart.

I will be seeing Andy next week on my way to another muletrip and I hope he tells me that "hay-I've gotten more help the past week!!!".

Thanks to Antonio for mentioning this little girl!!! I'll be staying at Baja Cactus on the 11th.....

:yes:

Committment.Inc

Baja Bucko - 11-1-2010 at 08:57 AM

OOOPs-make sure you are donating to Commitment.Inc....not what I wrote!!!

Regarding the paperwork just to get the people across the border---Andy has so many of these hours and dollars for just this-what a hassle!!! The paperwork for a certain little boy and his Dad took over 6 months!!!! BUT Andy did it!!!!

mcfez - 11-1-2010 at 09:37 AM

I am waiting!
Where's that's PayPal account? :coolup:

Dr. Abasolo of San Felipe for 20 years. He was formally the Chief of Staff at the St. James Infirmary...has handled stuff from broken legs to major heart issues with the help of his connections in Mexicali ....this guy really get miracles done. FYI.

Baja Bucko - 11-1-2010 at 06:51 PM

I'm bumping this up because this is REALLY IMPORTANT!!!!

woody with a view - 11-1-2010 at 07:06 PM

with a name like Itzel, who can refuse such a sweet thing????

BajaNomad - 11-2-2010 at 01:14 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Baja Bucko
I'm bumping this up because this is REALLY IMPORTANT!!!!

Likewise.

btw... I've met Andy Schouten, and am confident of the people behind this effort to help Itzel.

Regards,
-
Doug Means

capt. mike - 11-2-2010 at 05:47 AM

have you tried the Sams?
we shuttle sick kids out of baja to the Shriners hospital in Salt Lake all the time, i have done it from Ciudad Constitucion taking 1st leg to phx for a girl they fixed with Blount's disease. took about 6 trips/operations over 2-3 years, she is cured i think. her name was Rena Valenzuala i think.

you have a regular sams group there - talk with them.

DENNIS - 11-2-2010 at 05:56 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by woody with a view
with a name like Itzel, who can refuse such a sweet thing????

Name: Itzel

Gender: Girl

Origin:
Native American

Meaning:
Rainbow lady

Pronunciation:
(ee TSEL)

Form of:
Ixchel
-------------------------------------------------

Itzel ------- A common female name in Mesoamerica of indigenous origin. Itzel is derived from Ix Chel, an important moon goddess. As such, “Moon Goddess” and “She of the Rainbow” appear to be the most frequent translations in common literature. This is, however, inaccurate. Upon closer inspection, it becomes apparent that “Star”, or “Estrella” en Español, is much more accurate of an translation.
Itzel is borrowed from Nahualá K'iche', an independent dialect of the Quiché Maya language spoken in Northern Guatemala. Nomenclatural variants of Itzel, such as Itzehl (Huastecan, Poqom) and Itsehl (Yucatecan, Quichean) appear in Southern Mexico. They differ in meaning. Itzehl translates to “Moon Goddess”. Itsehl translates to “She of the Rainbow”. However, Itzel, which translates to “Star”, is used without discretion as an interchangeable synonym with it’s aforementioned variants, thus obscuring Itzel’s true meaning.
Itzel is an example of positive cultural regression. Amongst populations with direct ancestral relation to Mayan Culture, Itzel is rare. However, amongst the majority Ethnic Mestizo population, sentimental attachment to indigenous culture is at present acceptable, where in past generations it was not. This has skyrocketed the popularity of names such as Itzel. This trend is predicted to continue.

.

[Edited on 11-2-2010 by DENNIS]

BAJACAT - 11-2-2010 at 08:06 AM

LETS GET THIS PAY PAL ACCONT GOING...My mother in law has IMSS (INSTITUTO MEXICANO DEL SEGURO SOCIAL). she had a bad tooth, she went in and they gave her a appointment to get it check, it was going to be untill January 2011,, it's rediculious,,she was told to wait or go to a privated doctor....

KurtG - 11-2-2010 at 08:10 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Baja Bucko
I'm bumping this up because this is REALLY IMPORTANT!!!!

I've met Andy and know of his good work but don't know how to get money to him. How about a link to his site for donations or a dedicated PayPal account for this little girl.

Hello everyone,

a-commit - 11-2-2010 at 12:56 PM

You can find Commitment, Inc. on the web at: www.makeacommitment.org (Best if you use Google and key in Commitment, Inc.)... here is the hyperlink for you: Commitment, Inc

Commitment started in 2005 and is a 501(C) 3 Non-Profit Organization recognized by the IRS. A letter from the IRS is on the site. We can provide tax deductible receipts.

The site shows a picture of Itzel and describes her condition. She is 5 years old and was badly misdiagnosed, given little medication, treatment or hope. In a word, malpractice.

Commitment has worked with Hospital Del Prado in Tijuana on 4 successful heart operations already. We are negotiating with them as well as a U.S. hospital to the get the best possible combination of treatment and price for Itzel.

The website also mentions a heart operation done recently for a guide from the Sierra de San Francisco named Santos. We are still doing follow up work with him and he will likely need to come back to Tijuana early next year for another checkup. The “Completed Projects” shows the 15 surgeries that Commitment has played a major part in.

Some individuals have asked about the Shriners Hospital in Los Angeles. The Shriners only do orthopedic work, which Itzel does not need. Commitment has done some projects with the Shriners already.

Commitment is hoping that you will want to help Itzel with her operation. You can remit funds via paypal or by check:

If by Paypal you may use this link: Commitment at PayPal, or you can also use our PayPal e-mail address: commitment@nethere.com

By Check, made payable and sent to:

Commitment, Inc.
PO Box 178309
San Diego, CA 92177

We thank you for your consideration. Together we can make a difference!!!

Andy Schouten

BajaBlanca - 11-2-2010 at 01:08 PM

We shall be donating - wonderful cause !! The world of Baja is lucky that Andy was put on Earth !! Suerte Itzel ....

mcfez - 11-2-2010 at 01:12 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by a-commit
You can find Commitment, Inc. on the web at: www.makeacommitment.org (Best if you use Google and key in Commitment, Inc.)... here is the hyperlink for you: Commitment, Inc

Commitment started in 2005 and is a 501(C) 3 Non-Profit Organization recognized by the IRS. A letter from the IRS is on the site. We can provide tax deductible receipts.

The site shows a picture of Itzel and describes her condition. She is 5 years old and was badly misdiagnosed, given little medication, treatment or hope. In a word, malpractice.

Commitment has worked with Hospital Del Prado in Tijuana on 4 successful heart operations already. We are negotiating with them as well as a U.S. hospital to the get the best possible combination of treatment and price for Itzel.

The website also mentions a heart operation done recently for a guide from the Sierra de San Francisco named Santos. We are still doing follow up work with him and he will likely need to come back to Tijuana early next year for another checkup. The “Completed Projects” shows the 15 surgeries that Commitment has played a major part in.

Some individuals have asked about the Shriners Hospital in Los Angeles. The Shriners only do orthopedic work, which Itzel does not need. Commitment has done some projects with the Shriners already.

Commitment is hoping that you will want to help Itzel with her operation. You can remit funds via paypal or by check:

If by Paypal you may use this link: Commitment at PayPal, or you can also use our PayPal e-mail address: commitment@nethere.com

By Check, made payable and sent to:

Commitment, Inc.
PO Box 178309
San Diego, CA 92177

We thank you for your consideration. Together we can make a difference!!!

Andy Schouten

Anyone.....(sorry for the doubt)...is this the real McCoy to donate at?

a-commit = Commitment, Inc

BajaCactus - 11-2-2010 at 01:24 PM

mcfez... a-commit is the username for Commitment, Inc at the BajaNomad board... I can verify that the links and addresses posted above by a-commit are the correct ones... and you are right, better to make sure everything is in order.

Thank you for your interest.

Antonio M.
BajaCactus

mcfez - 11-2-2010 at 01:28 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by BajaCactus
mcfez... a-commit is the username for Commitment, Inc at the BajaNomad board... I can verify that the links and addresses posted above by a-commit are the correct ones... and you are right, better to make sure everything is in order.

Thank you for your interest.

Antonio M.
BajaCactus

Good man Antonio! Thanks.
My wallet opens up tonight for this.

David K - 11-2-2010 at 01:28 PM

Thanks Antonio... and Andy... welcome to Nomad, thanks for all you do!

DianaT - 11-2-2010 at 03:00 PM

Quote:

Thank you Antonio for assuring that this is the correct place to donate.

jbcoug - 11-2-2010 at 03:57 PM

I just checked the paypal site and saw how to make a donation to Commitment. Do I have to do anything special to direct my donation to Itzel?

JOhn

DianaT - 11-2-2010 at 04:31 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by jbcoug
I just checked the paypal site and saw how to make a donation to Commitment. Do I have to do anything special to direct my donation to Itzel?

JOhn

Before you hit the final button, there will be a place where you can open a small box and type in her name there. I think it said special instructions?

What I found confusing, but it might just be me, is after you enter the amount of your donation, you have to hit the update button before you can enter the payment information.

Good Luck

Oggie - 11-2-2010 at 04:58 PM

Just donated. It was easy. Good luck Itzel

mcfez - 11-2-2010 at 05:02 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Oggie
Just donated. It was easy. Good luck Itzel

PayPal securely processes donations for Commitment, Inc.. You can complete your payment with just a few clicks....very easy. The page is simple...the amount on the right upper page

woody with a view - 11-2-2010 at 06:29 PM

so easy, even a caveman could do it......

Typical Americans

sanquintinsince73 - 11-2-2010 at 06:48 PM

That's what I love about my fellow Nomads! If there is a problem, especially with a child, Nomads jump and say "how high" on the way up. You all rock. Count me in too. God bless all of you!!

woody with a view - 11-2-2010 at 07:02 PM

Antonio

since you brought this little girl to our attention, will you promise to keep us updated on her progress? i hope this doesn't turn into a "holiday spirit" cause and then nothing out the other end. el rosario is full of great folks and we want to follow her progress.

Gracias Sr!

[Edited on 11-3-2010 by woody with a view]

With pleasure...

BajaCactus - 11-2-2010 at 07:37 PM

Woody... it will be a real pleasure for me to keep you all informed about Itzel's progress.

I am actually working very close with Andy on this project... and I am sure that with all our help and support, Itzel will have a real opportunity in life.

And sanquintinsince73 ... you are totally right... this is why I am really proud to be part of this awesome community.

Hugs everyone,

Antonio M.
BajaCactus

MelissaF - 11-3-2010 at 04:37 AM

Hello,
I'm bumping this up because this is really important.
Ali.

wilderone - 11-3-2010 at 07:34 AM

I'm there.
Abrazos, Itzel.

DENNIS - 11-3-2010 at 07:46 AM

Who would say no??

tripledigitken - 11-3-2010 at 08:19 AM

Quote:

Thanks Andy for what you do!

Ken

"Pay It Forward"

Baja Bucko - 11-3-2010 at 08:47 AM

OK-so who's walking the walk here?

Andy will be updating the latest news very soon and it is exciting! Thanks Antonio for alerting this site-if it wasn't for you, Andy might not have been alerted to this girl!!! You know after seeing the move Pay It Forward my life took on a new direction. I wear a plastic bracelet that says "Pay It Forward" and do just that. Now is the time for the Nomads here to really have an impact on someone who so dearly needs it. AND you'll get to see the results too!

DENNIS - 11-3-2010 at 08:52 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Baja Bucko
Now is the time for the Nomads here to really have an impact on someone who so dearly needs it.

This is one time of many. We've never ignored the call for help and won't start now.

shari - 11-3-2010 at 09:06 AM

yup....just paid it forward again...and as everyone has voiced here...gracias Antonio y Andy for being you and doing what you do...and way to go Nomads for stepping up to the plate once again.

just a note...I sent pesos and hope this paypal account can process them...forgot to change them into dollars as I as thinking mexican girl=pesos...ooops.

DENNIS - 11-3-2010 at 10:56 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by shari

just a note...I sent pesos and hope this paypal account can process them...forgot to change them into dollars as I as thinking mexican girl=pesos...ooops.

You may have been a bit more generous than you realize...........about twelve times more. :biggrin:

toneart - 11-3-2010 at 11:25 AM

I just donated through PayPal. Thank you Antonio and Andy for your big hearts!

Let's all help Itzel get the help she needs to return to normal. :yes:

Sincerely,
Tony

BajaHombre - 11-3-2010 at 11:36 AM

I just donated via PayPal, as well.

DENNIS - 11-4-2010 at 08:14 AM

bump

Happy Birthday!!!

BajaCactus - 11-4-2010 at 03:35 PM

I would like to thank everyone who has been donating to help Itzel have her heart operation... By the way... today is Itzel's birthday... she turns 6 year old today... Happy Birthday Itzel!!!

On the other hand, following the Cardiologists instructions, we have been taking care of Itzel's dental health, since it is a requirement in order to have the heart operation.

We were unable to find a Pediatric Dentist in El Rosario nor San Quintín, and the regular dentists there were not willing to treat her because of her condition (mainly because the need to use anesthesia)... so we had to schedule appointments in Tijuana (Ensenada is closer but Tijuana is easier for me).

After two trips to Tijuana, specifically to see the dentist (and around $ 500.00 Dlls), we can say that in that area, Itzel is now ready for the operation.

Now... Andy has some very exciting news regarding Itzel's operation... but I will let him explain... he should be posting them here pretty soon.

Let us make sure Itzel has the opportunity to celebrate many more birthdays!!!!.

:bounce:

Antonio M.
BajaCactus

[Edited on 11-5-2010 by BajaCactus]

woody with a view - 11-4-2010 at 03:40 PM

good news!

all you who haven't had a chance to give Itzel a chance, now is your chance......

Lauriboats - 11-4-2010 at 03:56 PM

Count me in, good luck to little Itzel, thanks for helping her Antonio and Andy.

ITZEL IS GOING TO VEGAS!

a-commit - 11-5-2010 at 12:02 AM

Dr. Abraham Rothman, The Children’s Heart Center of Nevada and the Sunrise Hospital of Las Vegas have made a generous offer to operate on Itzel Zaragoza Osuna on November 16, 2010. Dr. Rothman will lead the team. Commitment has been helped by Dr. Rothman in the past. The heart operations received by Rosalinda Martínez Ramirez and Martha Anahí Arce Leree were done by Dr. Rothman at Hospital Del Prado in Tijuana, assisted by Dra. Patricia Aubanel and Dra. Azucena Murillo.

Dr. Rothman is a highly regarded pediatric cardiologist whose specialties include Aortic Coartation, the condition that Itzel suffers from. We believe that we are putting Itzel in the best possible hands.

Preparations have begun to arrange for Itzel and her mother to go to Las Vegas. We had originally anticipated a total cost of over $ 15,000. We now expect that to drop to around $ 10,000 as a result of Dr. Rothman’s efforts on Itzel’s behalf.

Commitment has already paid for:
1. Various trips from El Rosario to Tijuana for visits to Dra. Azucena Murillo.
2. Echocardiogram, EEG, Angio TAC (3 dimensional view of the heart).
3. Medication to control her blood pressure.
4. Dental work to eliminate any oral infection that could affect the heart.

We now need to pay for the:
1. The hospital operating room, Stent, and Angioplasty Balloon.
2. Travel to Las Vegas. Accommodations and food in Las Vegas.
3. Follow up doctor visits with Dra. Murillo in Tijuana.
4. Medication, as needed, for post operation recovery.
5. Additional tests, including echocardiogram to monitor recovery.

We have already received a number of generous donations from the Baja Nomads. We now have the doctor and the hospital for Itzel’s operation that we believe will change her life for the better. We hope that you can continue to support her, with your help we can change her life!

Thank you.

Andy Schouten

Lucero Itzel Zaragoza Osuna...

a-commit - 11-5-2010 at 12:10 AM

This is a recent picture of Itzel... please help us change her life forever!

Itzel.jpg - 29kB

tripledigitken - 11-5-2010 at 04:00 AM

Thats's tremendous news for that beautiful little girl, Andy!!!

What a great post to wake up to.

Skipjack Joe - 11-5-2010 at 06:50 AM

I'm in.

I sent an email to make sure the monies are directed towards Itzel's surgery.

BAJACAT - 11-5-2010 at 07:33 AM

I just send mine in via PAY PAL. thanks Antonio for setting this up, and all the Nomads for helping. Also thanks for Andy for all your efforts ...

DianaT - 11-5-2010 at 08:09 AM

Just a suggestion----

Antonio, now that there is an update and a photo of Itzel, you might think about editing you first post to add UPDATE AND PHOTO to your subject----just a thought that might draw more attention to this thread.

And the update news is fantastic!

[Edited on 11-5-2010 by DianaT]

shari - 11-5-2010 at 08:25 AM

WOW...what wonderul news for Itzel and her family...and please pass on our birthday wishes for a successful operation...well done team!

Santiago - 11-5-2010 at 08:57 AM

I'm in.

DENNIS - 11-5-2010 at 09:07 AM

Just to bump this info along with the thread:

Quote:

Birthday Cake...

BajaCactus - 11-5-2010 at 09:57 AM

Andy... I believe I have a most recent picture of Itzel...

... and thanks Diana... it is done!!!

[Edited on 11-5-2010 by BajaCactus]

Itzel birthday cake.jpg - 46kB

DENNIS - 11-5-2010 at 10:04 AM

Ohhh Lord....she is so cute.

Sharrone - 11-5-2010 at 11:30 AM

Thanks for giving us the opportunity to help this child.
Sharron

toneart - 11-5-2010 at 11:39 AM

This update is great news! I notice that the update has gotten more Nomads onboard. Feliz Cumpleanos, Itzel!

woody with a view - 11-5-2010 at 11:52 AM

like Shari says, if every visitor to this site "for just one day!" would give $5-$20 that little girl will get a gift more precious than we could ever understand.

i'm in for 2.5x and am glad to see so many of the crusty long-timers showing support. now, howz about some more of the newcomers helping out?

Thank You.

CasadelCardon - 11-5-2010 at 01:06 PM

We were delighted to see the response to the “cry for help” for Itzel. Andy is a “Newbie” to the Nomads forum but he is a long time traveler of the back roads of Baja and has over the decades contributed significantly to the well being of the peoples of the ranches and mountains. Commitment, Inc. was founded in 2005 to provide effective, time-sensitive medical care and support for persons who have no alternatives. He has independently assembled a binational group of medical experts and support that have provided care that goes far beyond that listed at the Commitment web site. All of the donations go to helping those in need. We have supported these efforts for almost 20 years and will continue.

These people need your help. They are the ones who helped pull your car out of the ditch, shared their lunch with you on the banks of the flooded vado, and were grateful for the small gifts you carried south. Please give as much as you can to help those with far fewer resources.

Chuck and Kathy Mitchell
Playa Santispac, Mulege BCS

KurtG - 11-5-2010 at 04:05 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by CasadelCardon
We were delighted to see the response to the “cry for help” for Itzel. Andy is a “Newbie” to the Nomads forum but he is a long time traveler of the back roads of Baja and has over the decades contributed significantly to the well being of the peoples of the ranches and mountains. Commitment, Inc. was founded in 2005 to provide effective, time-sensitive medical care and support for persons who have no alternatives. He has independently assembled a binational group of medical experts and support that have provided care that goes far beyond that listed at the Commitment web site. All of the donations go to helping those in need. We have supported these efforts for almost 20 years and will continue.

These people need your help. They are the ones who helped pull your car out of the ditch, shared their lunch with you on the banks of the flooded vado, and were grateful for the small gifts you carried south. Please give as much as you can to help those with far fewer resources.

Chuck and Kathy Mitchell
Playa Santispac, Mulege BCS

When I sent daughter Kristin the link to Andy's site she replied with a request that instead of a Christmas gift to her this year I should send another contribution to Andy in her name. Makes me feel pretty good about the person she grew up to be.
Kurt

DENNIS - 11-5-2010 at 04:11 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by KurtG
When I sent daughter Kristin the link to Andy's site she replied with a request that instead of a Christmas gift to her this year I should send another contribution to Andy in her name. Makes me feel pretty good about the person she grew up to be.
Kurt

I am close to being as proud of your daughter as you are. You both did good.
Thanks, Kurt.

CaboMagic - 11-5-2010 at 04:25 PM

With love and prayers,
Tommy & Lori Garcia
and
Team Cabo Magic

KurtG - 11-5-2010 at 04:35 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS

Quote:

I am close to being as proud of your daughter as you are. You both did good.
Thanks, Kurt.

Thanks, I appreciate your comment. Kristin is an "Old Baja Hand." I first took her and her brother to Mulege in 1975 where the 3 of us lived off and on during their pre-school years and she has continued to visit as much as her adult working life has allowed. I hope others will be motivated by her generousity and donate to this good cause as well.

Just an Idea

DianaT - 11-5-2010 at 05:00 PM

I just put the link to Andy's Organization, some information about Itzel, and her picture on my facebook page.

Sorry, I did not ask permission to use the photo and I do not normally use the photos of others, but this time I did so.

BajaBlanca - 11-5-2010 at 08:25 PM

Antonio - I am working on getting her and her family accomodations in Vegas and will let you know tomorrow.

Amazing

Stickers - 11-5-2010 at 09:17 PM

From my chair at my computer somewhere NOB I can help.
A big shout-out to Doug Means and the rest of you generous Nomads for making this possible :saint:

Rick

windgrrl - 11-5-2010 at 09:29 PM

Done.

DavidT - 11-5-2010 at 09:44 PM

I'm in. Remember this is a six year old girl from Baja and she is about to be overwhelmed by Doctors and hospitals. She's gonna need a teddy bear, or maybe a hundred teddy bears to share with her friends.

David

Acommodations...

BajaCactus - 11-5-2010 at 10:22 PM

Blanca... thank you very much... I will let Andy know... he is the one managing the logistics of the trip, along with the staff of the Hospital where Itzel is going to be operated.

Hugs,

Antonio M.
BajaCactus

desertcpl - 11-6-2010 at 08:18 AM

we just did paypal,, good luck little Itzel

Ken/Jane

BajaNuts - 11-6-2010 at 10:53 AM

paypal done for the little beauty.

bajaCactus or a-commit, perhaps re-post the paypal/donation information periodically to keep it easy for new readers to find the links.

Thanks for all your help to those who need it.

bajanuts

Fairbanks47 - 11-6-2010 at 11:09 AM

It is with great pleasure that my wife and I donate to this very worthy cause! :bounce:

redmesa - 11-6-2010 at 12:33 PM

My best hopes go with our donation. So much need in the world it is hard to know where and when to give-- thanks for the help in my deciding this time.

Skipjack Joe - 11-6-2010 at 12:42 PM

Make this thread a 'sticky' for a while, until she returns back home. Like bajajudy's 'THE LIST'.

It would be great if that could also be done by way of 'Today's Posts' but don't think that's possible.

DENNIS - 11-6-2010 at 12:58 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS
Just to bump this info along with the thread:

Quote:

fishingmako - 11-6-2010 at 02:39 PM

You Know it is so easy to say, Pay Pal is too hard or I will catch someone next time around, and just drop the ball and go on with Life.

So I decided I would take the time and find out how to make a donation, so I did and I feel so good, This is the Holidays and Christmas what a Christmas Present for this little one to be able to have her LIFE.

I made a Donation on behalf of this little Angel.

I Pray that the ministering Angels will be there with and for you.

God Bless

Good idea...

BajaCactus - 11-6-2010 at 09:05 PM

BajaNuts... that is a good idea... thank you. Here is the link again:

Commitment has made arrangements to have Itzel's Heart operation in Las Vegas on November 16th, 2010... she needs our help!!!... If you wish to make a donation to help Itzel via PayPal right now, you may click the following link: Commitment at PayPal.

Thank you.

[Edited on 11-7-2010 by BajaCactus]

BajaNuts - 11-6-2010 at 09:43 PM

and also- thank you, DENNIS, for keeping the critical info at hand. Despite what you may project, you really are an angel! XOXO to you-

Mike99km - 11-6-2010 at 11:46 PM

If you pay attention you know that DENNIS is a good person deep down, very deep down, very,very deep down. You might half to go real deep and move some stuff but you'll find him. I don't thinks he bites to hard :lol:

Juanita - 11-7-2010 at 08:16 AM

Hello to Andy, and to you all. That link to Commitment was a good help and I do hope and pray that Itzel will be able to breathe, run and live a normal life. Juanita

CaboMagic - 11-7-2010 at 09:32 AM

We received a thank you email from Andy Schouten for our donation - What class.

What an appropriate name for his caring and dedication .. It takes more than an enormous amount of committment to follow thru on promises.

Bravo blessings to all who publicly and/or privately participate.

Fundraising Raffle and Dinner Event...

BajaCactus - 11-7-2010 at 09:09 PM

Hi,

Andy and I have come up with an idea to show our appreciation for all your help and support in helping Itzel with her very much needed Heart Operation... you can read all about it here: Itzel's Fundraising Raffle.

We hope you can join us and that you keep supporting Itzel... together we can save her life!!!.

Thank you.

Antonio Munoz
BajaCactus

[Edited on 11-8-2010 by BajaNomad]

Itzel

shari - 11-8-2010 at 07:40 AM

wonderful idea for the dinner & raffle!! thank you Antonio for organizing this event.... what about having a silent auction too to raise more funds?? items can be auctioned off at the dinner...we can donate a free night at the B&B.

I am kind of embarrassed by the number of nomads who donated...31?? out of the thousands who read this forum...come on folks, we can do MUCH better than that...it's easy to click on the link and donate whatever...5 bucks would help if a thousand of us did it!!! Hopefully alot more lurkers donated but their name wouldnt show up...maybe??

Itzel

KurtG - 11-8-2010 at 09:27 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by shari
wonderful idea for the dinner & raffle!! thank you Antonio for organizing this event.... what about having a silent auction too to raise more funds?? items can be auctioned off at the dinner...we can donate a free night at the B&B.

I am kind of embarrassed by the number of nomads who donated...31?? out of the thousands who read this forum...come on folks, we can do MUCH better than that...it's easy to click on the link and donate whatever...5 bucks would help if a thousand of us did it!!! Hopefully alot more lurkers donated but their name wouldnt show up...maybe??

I think the list shows lurkers since my daughter's and Kathy's donations are listed but neither are nomads. I'm with you, Shari, while times are hard for many of us $5 or $10 donations would add up quickly if there was more particiption.

Itzel

DENNIS - 11-8-2010 at 09:40 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by shari
I am kind of embarrassed by the number of nomads who donated...31?? out of the thousands who read this forum...come on folks, we can do MUCH better than that...it's easy to click on the link and donate whatever...

The list doesn't tell the full story. I for one, can't get through to PayPal. It won't accept my info...period. I got tired of trying so I sent a check.
Personally, I'm put off by the publication of the list of donors. Participation prompted by embarrassment probably wasn't the goal, but it has that effect as illustrated by Shari's honest response.

Itzel

shari - 11-8-2010 at 09:48 AM

gracias dennis...in no way did I mean the posting of names was prompted by what you mentioned...I was just really surprised and yes...somewhat ashamed that so few have donated to help this sweet young lady...I always did wonder how many nomads open their hearts in these charity cases but I thought it was WAAAAAAAY more....hmmmm....comeon nomads....make me proud!

Itzel

DENNIS - 11-8-2010 at 09:58 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by shari
gracias dennis...in no way did I mean the posting of names was prompted by what you mentioned...

Awwww...I know you didn't, Shari. I mentioned yours was an honest response.
Fund raising is a touchy business. It can be a success or failure for the most obscure of reasons and donors are a delicate bunch who see and feel the slightest pressure negatively.

Anyway, I hope for the best. Nothing else.

Fairbanks47 - 11-8-2010 at 02:16 PM

Antonio,
As the event date gets closer, if there is any assistance needed in any way(set up, gathering equipment/supplies, etc.), please, don't hesitate to ask. My wife and I live in San Diego and are more than willing to assist. You can u2u me and I can give you my phone info.
Thanks,
Dana G. :yes:

Itzel

wsdunc - 11-8-2010 at 03:36 PM

OK, Shari shamed me into it. Actually when I read this thread earlier the donation part didn't seem to be set up. Anyhow, I'm glad to help, and Shari's right, if all the Nomads who could afford it made a donation it would have significant impact.

Itzel

Keri - 11-8-2010 at 05:22 PM

Mike and I are in too but I did mine with my credit card. We would add a night at the hotel for a silent auction also if you want to do that .Good idea Shari I was wondering what else we could do. k

Itzel

DENNIS - 11-8-2010 at 05:31 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Keri
Mike and I are in too but I did mine with my credit card.

Hi Keri....was that through PayPal or is there another way?

BajaGringo - 11-8-2010 at 06:50 PM

Somehow I missed this up until now but caught it when I saw the connected dinner / raffle thread.

Glad to help and will keep Itzel in our prayers...

bufeo - 11-9-2010 at 04:04 PM

I check out the BN site infrequently, but I'm sure glad I did.

Thank you Antonio for bringing this to the attention of all, and many, many thanks to Andy S for your wonderful contributions.

We made a donation through PayPal. Is there some way of indicating how close to the goal the donations have reached? Perhaps I missed it, but I did read all of the posts on this thread.

Allen R

Neal Johns - 11-9-2010 at 05:01 PM

OK, I'm in - and after I finished with PayPal, my wife told to do it again! She is not all bad.

If only I heard those words more often! :lol:

BajaBlanca - 11-10-2010 at 06:52 PM

Antonio - I have not heard from my friend in Vegas, I am guessing he is on vacation. If I get any help at all, I will write you.

DianaT - 11-11-2010 at 10:49 AM

Bump

Any report as to how the fund raising is going?

Fundraising...

BajaCactus - 11-11-2010 at 11:47 AM

Hello my friends,

My apologies for not posting in this thread lately... Andy and I have been very busy preparing everything for Itzel´s operation.

Because of the Visa/permits requirements, only Itzel and mom are going to Las Vegas, no other member of their family are going with them... so Andy and I decided to arrange our work schedule so we could acompany them and help with any support they may require.

For Itzel, the trip starts tomorrow Friday, November 12th... she is leaving to Tijuana at 5:00am... and appointment with the dentist is set for 4:30pm. In order for her to be operated on, we need to make sure there are no health issues with her teeth, so she is having a final checkup.

Then, on Monday, November 15th, Dr. Rothman wants to see her and make sure eveything is in order for the operation on the 16th... so, Itzel, mom, Andy and I are flying to Las Vegas this weekend to be there with plenty of time.

I just talked with Itzel´s mom and she is is very, very nervous... quite understandable... Itzel however, is very happy because she is going on "vacations" and, for the first time in her life, she is going to board a plane... she is very excited... so much that her mom just told me that Itzel does not want to leave her side... Itzel told her: "Mom, I am not loosing sight of you... otherwise you may leave without me"... jejeje... the beauty of children.

Dennis... thank you so much for keeping the thread alive by bumping it to the top often.

BajaBlanca... do not worry... thank you so much for your effort and enthusiasm.

DianaT... I know we are still a bit short on the total needed... but I do not have the exact numbers yet... I will ask Andy to send me an update on the donations to see how close to the goal we are and I will post that info.

Everyone, thank you so much for your unconditional support towards Itzel... together we are making sure she will have the chance of a normal life... we are literaly saving a life... and that my friends... has no price!!!

I will come back soon with some numbers.

Hugs!!!

Antonio M.
BajaCactus

tripledigitken - 11-11-2010 at 12:05 PM

Antonio,

Thanks for the update and your involvement in this.

Ken

DENNIS - 11-11-2010 at 12:26 PM

Vaya Con Díos, Itzel. Enjoy the ride.

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