The Contreras’ family who has immigrated from Mexico to obtain treatment for son Emiliano’s leukemia, has settled into their new home and enjoyed the summer there. Four year old Emiliano’s bone marrow transplant from his brother appears to have been successful. Although still under treatment, he has fewer procedures and hospitalizations than he has had for the past year. Our ‘transportation team’ still drives him and his mother to their appointments at Lurie Children’s hospital when necessary.

Thoughtful members of our Refugee Assistance team completed a ‘back to school’ bonanza for the children. They obtained the school supply lists for each of the four school age children, Aleth, Renata, Benito and Mateo and purchased backpacks for each of them which they filled with the designated supplies. Emiliano has not been released to attend school, though he wishes he could. He and his two year old sister, Aitana, were remembered with special gifts chosen by the team.

Through the generosity of our parishioners, we are paying the rent and contributing to food expense as the Contreras family and the medical team works to restore Emiliano’s health. We are grateful to have been able to fund the back to school gifts as well.

Public schools require students to access the internet and we are hoping our parishioners will donate to cover the as yet undetermined monthly cost of this service at their apartment.

Please continue your generous support of our ‘adopted family’ and the Refugee Assistance team will continue their efforts to meet their needs. Please keep the Contreras family in your prayers. Contact Peggy Brown, pegita@aol.com if you wish to join the team or if you have any questions.