Juan was five years old when he was seriously burned in a house fire that resulted in the death of his two-year old sister. Juan's father had taken his seven-year old daughter to school on his way to work as a gardener. Juan's motherwas cleaning the bedroom, and the two young children were playing in the kitchen where small candles were burning to counternct cooking odors. Screams brought the mother running, but it was too late. Smoke had filled the room. A passerby heard the screams and was able to pull Juan and his mother to safety. Two-year old Ruby was not so fortunate.

Juan was severely burned on his face, right hand and fingers, chest and thigh. His mother sustained serious injuries. The family was devastated by the multiple trngedies. And on the income of a gardener, they were desperate.

Although unable to erase the multiple tragedies, The Children's Burn Foundation was able to help. The Foundation paid for the burial of the youngest member of the family. Juan was outfitted with a face mask and pressure garments that were designed to provide continuous passive motion, mimicking the normal movement of the joint and reducing pain, joint stiffness and edema (water retention). Transportation was provided by bus and taxi enabling Juan to go to medical appointments. Rent was paid for one month to enable the family to remain in their home in spite of the father's reduced income while he grieved for his daughter and helped his son and wife recover.

This is a sad and distressing story, but one that clearly articulates the significance of the funds made available through The Children's Burn Foundation. It underlines the importance of haVing funds immediately available when children and their families need them and of having the flexibility to respond to each child's unique circumstances and changing needs.