Mayan Teen Transformed by Charitable Surgery (March 18 thru May 26)
A renewed life can be spiritual and physical. Mayan teen Marleny Ambrocio’s life was physically transformed by a circle of Shalom Foundation supporters and medical care providers. Several years ago Marleny developed a swiftly growing facial mass endangering her life. Living in a remote Mayan community more than 9 hours from Guatemala City, Marleny was brought to see The Shalom Foundation’s Otolaryngology Surgical Mission Team from Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt for the first time in September, 2008.
Marleny and Dr. Steve Goudy
“The mass was extensive, but the family was not prepared to come to the United States for treatment. They held out hope that something could be done in Guatemala,” said surgeon and team leader Steve Goudy, MD.
In June, 2009, doctors with The Shalom Foundation—Hendersonville Rotary Club Medical Team examined Marleny a second time while in Guatemala City. “She needed a CT scan and a MRI to help form a treatment plan,” said Dr. Bill Taylor, DDS. “We secured these through our long-standing Guatemala partner Dr. Sergio Molinedo.”
In February, 2010, Drs. Morrow, Neblett, and Carlson examined Marleny again in preparation for her trip to Nashville for surgery. “She is a sweet, smart, tough little girl,” said Dr. Kate Carlson, Marleny’s pediatrician. “She captured our hearts. We wanted to do everything we could do to help her.”
Marleny arrived in March for her surgery procedure and follow up care. Led by ENT surgeons Steve Goudy and Chris Wooten and ophthalmologist Louise Mawn, the surgery was a complete success.
“She is healing very well. Her eye was completely saved. She has excellent vision,” said Dr. Mawn. She is on her way to a renewed life filled with hope, schooling, and opportunities!
Nov 2010: During the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt Plastic Surgery trip in November in Guatemala City, Marleny was again seen by Dr Wes Thayer for a post surgery follow up visit. Dr Thayer reports that Marleny is steadily progressing and her outlook continues to look great!
Article in the “Vanderbilt Magazine” Fall 2010 – Click Now
