Raimundo's Story

Raimundo's had a normal childhood, full of youthful dreams and hopes. This led to his marriage to a beautiful girl at the tender age of 20. A year later, the arrival of his first child brought immeasurable joy to his life. All was well.

However, at age 22, the unthinkable happened and Raimundo contracted leprosy, a condition that would forever alter the course of his life. His wife, afraid of contracting the disease herself, decided to take their child and leave him behind. Raimundo lost everything.

He was subsequently relocated to a leper colony in the Amazon, a place of isolation where the world often turns its back on those afflicted by leprosy, condemning them to face the dual challenges of physical suffering and social stigma. Over the years, the disease exacted a toll on his body, leading to the loss of fingers and legs. Yet, astonishingly, Raimundo maintained an ever-present peace and joy, a testament to the strength of the human spirit in adversity.

Approximately 25 years ago, our founder Jim Flickinger's path converged with Raimundo's when they first met during Raimundo's stay in a leprosarium. It marked the beginning of a profound friendship that continued after he moved to a small concrete dwelling nearby. However, this shift presented its own set of daunting challenges, especially for someone unable to walk. Simple tasks like buying groceries, cooking, cleaning, accessing medical help, or even changing a lightbulb became monumental hurdles.

Throughout this journey, the unwavering support of Amazon Relief donors emerged as Raimundo's lifeline. Your compassionate generosity provided him with daily assistance and the reassurance that he was not alone on this arduous path. This support continued until the final days of October 2022 when, at the age of 89, Raimundo peacefully passed away, 67 years after the heartbreaking loss of his wife and child.

Please join us here at Amazon Relief in prayer for his eternal rest and for a serene transition to a realm where suffering no longer prevails. And as we remember Raimundo, let us also consider the countless others like him, abandoned and in need, who still await our support and compassion. Your continued assistance  serves as a beacon of hope, lighting their path towards a better tomorrow. Together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of those who need it most. Please help.