Sometimes something happens that makes us stop everything and take a deep breath. That’s what last week felt like for all of us at CHHF.
Last Wednesday, our Community Development Director, Gladis, was working with a team when she got a phone call. Her partner, Jairo, had been in an accident. There was an explosion, and he was badly burned.
Gladis left right away and took a 90-minute bus ride to the hospital to be with him.
Doctors quickly decided Jairo needed to go to another hospital that could care for burn patients. It was much farther away, but it had what he needed. He was transferred and then received surgery to clean and treat the burns on his arms, legs, and face.
It has been a very tough time, but we are staying hopeful. Jairo is strong. He is also strong willed and has been doing everything he can to heal as quickly as possible.
This week has been scary and difficult. But it also reminded us that we are part of a special community — one that always runs toward a problem, not away from it. The love, prayers, and support we’ve watched have been incredible. So many people have reached out to help, and the kindness shown to Jairo and his family has been overwhelming.
Even in the middle of something so hard, we’ve seen so much good. And we are so thankful for you — our CHHF family.
A Surprise Visit Filled with Care
Last Thursday, Dr. Fran Kunda and her team made a big change to their plans. Instead of spending their “day of rest” relaxing, they drove three hours out of their way to the city of Olanchito to visit Gladis and Jairo.
Gladis wasn’t expecting them, but the visit meant so much. Even more reassuring—when the medical team checked on Jairo, they were pleased with the care he was receiving and felt confident that everything was headed in the right direction.
It was a powerful reminder that even small acts of kindness can bring comfort and hope in hard times. And that sometimes, it’s more than okay to change your plans and go out of your way—especially when it’s for framily.
Another Level of Beautiful
At CHHF, we have a small but mighty staff—just twelve people total. Five of us are full time, and the rest work part time. It’s a true honor to lead this amazing team, and honestly, I could brag on them all day.
But this past week, watching how our team showed up for Gladis left me speechless. When she had to step away to be with Jairo, everyone stepped in without hesitation. Whether it was covering her job responsibilities, sending messages of encouragement, or even searching for more affordable medication—each person found a way to help.
It’s one thing to care deeply for our volunteers and patients. But it’s another level of beautiful when our team extends that same love and support to each other. I couldn’t be more grateful.
When Neighbors Become Family
Last Wednesday was overwhelming in every way—but one of the brightest spots was seeing neighbors step up for Gladis and her family.
With so much happening, a kind neighbor jumped in to help care for Gladis’ two older daughters. And then, going above and beyond, her husband drove the girls’ hours to the hospital so they could see their dad. As hard as it was, seeing him with their own eyes brought them comfort. Sometimes, what we imagine is scarier than the truth—and being there made all the difference.
We’re incredibly thankful for neighbors who become like family when life takes a turn. In moments like these, we’re reminded: good neighbors really are the best.
Grateful Beyond Words for Honduran Medical Heroes
We are profoundly grateful for the Honduran doctors and medical teams who have cared for Jairo over the past week. In the midst of an overwhelmed and under-resourced system, they have shown incredible skill, compassion, and dedication. It is because of their care that Jairo is healing as well as he is.
We’ve always considered the Honduran medical community one of our strongest and most valued partners. We see the challenges they face every day, and we are honored to support their work whenever we can. But this week reminded us just how fortunate we are to work alongside such committed professionals—especially when they are caring for someone who means so much to us.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. Your dedication is a gift to your country—and to us.
When One Hurts, We All Show Up!
Whether this is the first time you’re hearing about Jairo’s accident, or you’ve already been walking alongside us through this difficult week, we know your first instinct is to take action. This weekend, please consider one (or more!) of the ways you can show support:
- Send a Message of Encouragement
Let Gladis, Jairo, and their family know they’re not alone. You can CLICK HERE to write in English or Spanish) a note on our e-card that will be sent to Jairo and Gladis this weekend. You can also email to send a quick note of encouragement, a prayer, or a message of hope. We’ll make sure it reaches them during this difficult time. - Make a Gift to Support Emergency Needs
Unexpected situations like this remind us why we have a medical referral fund—for medications, travel, specialty care, and urgent support for patients in Honduras who are in desperate need. Your donation today makes a difference. CLICK HERE to make a donation today that will be tripled because of our current President’s Challenge. - Help Us Keep Showing Up
The strength of our mission comes from people like you. If you’ve ever considered volunteering, now’s a great time to learn more. Whether it’s a future medical team or helping from home, we’d love to have you! Contact Christine for more info.
Thank you for being part of this mission.
