A Mother’s Prayers, A Little Girl’s New Beginning
For three-year-old Adriana Elizabeth Marroquín Vásquez, the wish was simple: to walk, run, and play. For her mother, Claudia, the journey toward that possibility meant finding courage amid fear and uncertainty.
Their journey with Faith In Practice began in San Carlos Alzatate, Jalapa, when volunteer leader Armando Najera connected Adriana’s family with a medical clinic. Claudia, a 24-year-old mother, felt both hopeful and afraid. She understood how much hip surgery could change her daughter’s life, but one question weighed heavily on her heart: Was her little girl strong enough to make it through?
Despite her fears, Claudia brought Adriana to the clinic, where doctors evaluated her. Then came the waiting, a time filled with anticipation, questions, and prayers.
A week before surgery, mother and daughter arrived at Casa de Fe. At first, Adriana was shy around the other children. But after a few days, her shyness began to fade. She started playing and growing comfortably in her new surroundings. Even as surgery approached, she seemed calm, with her mother close by.
Back home, her family waited anxiously for news. As their first grandchild, Adriana held a special place in their hearts. From the day she left home, they prayed for her daily, asking God to protect her and guide those caring for her.
On the day of surgery, those prayers continued. The entire family was deeply nervous, and Claudia faced the difficult wait with the hope that her daughter would never have to go through this experience again.
Then came the news they had been longing to hear; Adriana’s hip surgery had been successful. The worry that had weighed so heavily on her family gave way to relief, and happy tears were shared.
Claudia remained beside her daughter throughout her care. She was deeply grateful to the surgeons and staff whose support had helped them through such an emotional journey. Above all, she thanked God for the blessing of a successful surgery and the hope that Adriana could enjoy the childhood she had imagined for her.
And Adriana has dreams of her own. This little girl, who loves chocolate and chicken legs, hopes to become a doctor someday so she can care for other children like herself.
For now, Claudia looks forward to the everyday moments she has wished for so deeply: watching her daughter run toward her, join other children at play, and explore the world with greater freedom. After so much worry, there is room to breathe, give thanks, and imagine all that lies ahead.
Someday, Adriana may help another child take their own steps toward healing. Today, surrounded by love and carried in her family’s prayers, she begins her recovery with time to grow, room to dream, and the joy of simply being a little girl.
Other Newsletter Stories
Volunteer Spotlight: Adam Griner
2026 Annual Celebration: Known and Loved
Guatemala Celebrations
Partnership Spotlight: Orthopedic Program
