gymsmile FOR Alan

In a rural area of El Tambo, in the village of Chisquio, Diana Marcela lives with her son Alan, an 8-year-old boy who has demonstrated since birth what it means to fight for life.

Alan came into the world amidst a complicated delivery. A lack of timely care caused him to suffer severe asphyxia, leaving him without oxygen for several minutes. Although he was successfully resuscitated and remained in intensive care for nine days, the consequences were profound. Months later, doctors confirmed a diagnosis that would change their lives forever: irreversible neurological damage, accompanied by microcephaly, cerebral palsy, and epilepsy.

From that moment, Diana felt the world stand still. But she found in the love for her son the strength to move forward.

For eight years, her life has been completely dedicated to Alan’s care. She is his mother, his nurse, his therapist, and his greatest support. Day by day, she accompanies him in everything: at home, in his therapies, and also at school, where together they have found an inclusive space that has allowed Alan to adapt, enjoy, and share with other children.

Alan does not speak or walk and has limited mobility, but his way of communicating goes beyond words. His eyes express everything he feels. He is a cheerful, loving, and sensitive child who enjoys sounds, movement, games, and painting—an activity he shares with his mother as a form of connection and therapy.

Living in a rural area makes access to medical care a constant challenge. To attend his therapies, they must travel to Popayán, on trips of up to six hours round-trip, often over roads in poor condition. Although they have transportation support, the physical and emotional toll is enormous.

Today, the situation has become even more difficult. Alan has grown and is stronger, and moving him is increasingly demanding. Diana, due to years of overexertion, also faces health problems that prevent her from continuing these frequent trips.

Despite everything, they do not give up.

At home, Diana continues to perform stimulation exercises, massages, games, and activities that help Alan’s development. However, she recognizes that she lacks the necessary tools to provide him with adequate rehabilitation.

Therefore, her greatest wish is to have a rehabilitation gym at home. This would not only allow Alan to continue his process without interruptions but also improve his quality of life and bring him closer to his biggest dream: achieving greater independence and, someday, being able to walk.

Diana and Alan are an example of love, resilience, and faith. They have faced every obstacle with courage, proving that even in the midst of difficulties, hope lives on.