Wilmer's Walk: A Story of Healing and Hope in the Village of San Antonio
February 2024 in the village of San Antonio a tragic accident forever altered seventeen-year-old Wilmer's life. Just a young man, dedicated to working in the fields to support his family after completing his education, he was struck by a truck while walking home one evening, sustaining a broken femur. Wilmer grew up in the village of San Antonio supported by our child sponsorship program, nurtured from a young age by the support of our partners at First Baptist Meridianville. After the accident, he spent two weeks in the hospital. Yet, his family, deeply rooted in the distrust of modern medicine prevalent in many Mayan villages – a fear born from generations of isolation and, at times, tragic experiences – hesitated to consent to the surgery needed to repair his leg. This cultural fear, a suspicion towards invasive medical procedures, often leads to tragic consequences. Against medical advice, Wilmer returned home, confined to his bed for over six months.
During this time of suffering, our in-country team, Pastor Jorge and Javi, became beacons of hope, consistently visiting and ministering to Wilmer and his family. When the FBM mission team arrived in July, they joined this chorus of compassion, working together to convince the family of the necessity of surgery. Through the generous support of our partners, Wilmer finally received the surgery, medicines, and treatments essential for his recovery.
In December, when the FBM team returned, they were met with a joyous sight: Wilmer walking again. He and his family were overcome with gratitude for his healing and remarkable progress. Wilmer's journey, from a sponsored child to a young man struck down, then restored to health, became a living testament to the enduring love of Jesus. It illustrated the strength He provides to endure challenges that seem insurmountable on our own, and the profound impact of compassionate care. This is the very reason we serve in the village of San Antonio. All glory goes to God for His transformative power, changing lives through His boundless love.
