From the moment Gael arrived at Shriners Children’s Southern California, his gentleness and well-mannered demeanor drew everyone in.
He made his way through the medical center, smiling and saying hello to everyone and easily making friends with other patients. At first interaction, one would never know what he has been through at such a young age.
Gael was just 2 years old when a kitchen accident changed his life forever. While playing with his younger cousin in their home in Tijuana, Mexico, a stove toppled over, causing severeburns covering his abdomen to his thighs. His cousin suffered burns on her ankles, but unfortunately, Gael’s injuries were more extensive.
Scared but determined, Gael’s parents, Yoselin and Raul, rushed him to the nearest hospital. There, the doctor referred them to Shriners Children’s. The doctor assured them that Gael would receive the best care, giving them hope. Leaving her two other children and her husband behind in Tijuana, Yoselin made the difficult decision to travel to Shriners Children’s Ohio, knowing it would be the best place for Gael’s recovery.
Gael received skin grafting treatment at Shriners Children’s Ohio for three months, with Yoselin always by his side. Luckily, she soon received support from family when Gael’s cousin, accompanied by her aunt, arrived to receive treatment as well. When the young cousins saw each other, it lifted their spirits and helped ease their medical journey. Gael finished his treatment in Ohio and went back home to his siblings and father in Tijuana. The focus of his care shifted closer to home when he continued treatment atShriners Children’s Southern California. From their home in Tijuana, they were able to connect viatelemedicine with plastic surgeonKatherine Au, M.D., to map out a plan for Gael’s treatment.
Not many 3-year-olds are as brave as Gael. He is one of our little superheroes that fights through everything with a smile on his face. His burn care journey will be long, but I know he will stay positive through it.
Since receiving care at Shriners Children’s Southern California, the staff has made the medical center feel like a second home to Gael. He continues to feel comfortable and looks forward to his appointments with Dr. Au. When Dr. Au met Gael, she created a custom-designed teddy bear, which she is popularly known for, and dressed it as Spider-Man using colorful surgical tape. The famous webslinger is Gael’s favorite superhero.
Now two years after Gael’s injury, he comes to the medical center every three months for follow-ups. His family is grateful for the care they are receiving from the staff and Dr. Au. “She explains every detail with clarity and care,” said Yoselin. “She has an excellent attitude and a big smile all the time. It brings us a sense of comfort through such a rough time.”
Yoselin continued, “The care and support Shriners Children’s has provided has been a blessing to my family. From Shriners fraternity members providing transportation from San Diego to Pasadena, to the staff that supports us through every step of the way, it’s made the journey comforting.”
Gael is an active child who enjoys soccer and dancing. He loves spending time with his family and playing with his toys. Although this journey is difficult for Gael, he never loses his light or happiness. His medical journey is far from over, but with the love of his family and the support of Shriners Children’s, they are filled with courage and hope.
Our patients and families are at the heart of everything we do at Shriners Children's. We invite you to share how the team at Shriners Children's has helped your child.
Through the generosity of donors like you, we've helped over one million children lead more fulfilling lives, regardless of their families' ability to pay.
