Two days after Christmas in 2003, a father arrived at our clinic with his newborn son. Tragically, the boy’s mother had died shortly after giving birth. The father, an elderly man, had walked about six hours to reach us, seeking help for his baby. With no outpatient formula program available at that time, the boy was admitted to the Rescue Center.

The father, feeling unable to care for his son due to his age and frailty, left him in our care but visited whenever he could. During these visits, a special bond formed between the boy, named Andrelien, and one of the nannies. She became a mother figure to him, providing love and care during his formative months at the center. As Andrelien grew, his father, recognizing the deep connection between them, entrusted the nanny with raising him as her own. She took on this responsibility wholeheartedly, never asking RHFH for assistance. As Andrelien grew, his father became too frail to visit him and eventually became bedridden. As Andrelien got older, he made the trek to visit his father, maintaining their bond despite the distance and difficulty.

When it was time for Andrelien to start school, we offered our support. He excelled initially but faced challenges during his teenage years, struggling with school and even failing a grade. This period was tough for him as he grappled with the loss of his biological mother and the realities of his life. For a time, he decided not to return to school, seeking purpose and direction. However, with the encouragement of his foster mother and the RHFH community, he found his way back to his studies.

Recently, Andrelien passed the official 9th-grade exam, a significant achievement that marked his resilience and determination. This milestone was a moment of pride for him and everyone who had supported him along the way. Outside of school, Andrelien works odd jobs in construction to help support himself and his family, demonstrating commitment to contributing to his household.

From Andrelien: “Thank you to RHFH for the help they have provided since I was a baby. You have always loved and encouraged me, and I appreciate that. I want to encourage you now to not stop this good work you are doing.”

The journey of Andrelien and his foster mother is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the impact of consistent support. Their story highlights the importance of nurturing and education, and how a caring environment can transform lives. Andrelien’s achievements are not just personal victories; they are a reflection of the collective effort of a community dedicated to uplifting its members.