Imagine having a son who cannot walk. We will call him Tomas. Through a local wheelchair giveaway, you were able to find a wheelchair for Tomas, but you live in the Highlands of Guatemala. Your house is in a community off a narrow road and on the side of the mountain, so he can’t propel himself many places. You’ve carried him to and from the house to get him the medical and rehabilitation services he needs at great cost financially, physically, and emotionally. You’ve even carried him and his wheelchair to school so he could get an education. He may not be able to walk, but he is smart.

One day the director of the school calls you to his office and says, “We cannot accept a child who cannot walk in our school. I want you to take his records and go.”

You go, but your heart breaks over the injustice. With hope and faith you say, “You may reject my son, but God is not yet done with him. There is so much more he will do.”

This is the story of one of our families in the therapy program at ASELSI. Recently, Tomas’ mom shared this experience with Tomasa, her rehabilitation promoter. Though hurt by the injustice, she did not give up hope. She’s seen God answer her prayers, along with Tomasa’s, for her son. Recently, Tomas started walking. He’s building up his strength and endurance by carrying individual pieces of dirty clothes outside to the washing area. Back and forth he goes. He’s happy!

Today, Tomas can walk on his own. He still bends his knees some as he does, but he can stand up straight. There is much for him to learn, but his mom and Tomasa are thankful for what they’ve seen so far. What else will Tomas learn to do thanks to some love, encouragement, and basic rehabilitation services?