By Guanacaste, Costa Rica — LIBERIA, Guanacaste – A family from Liberia is making a desperate plea to the public as they launch an urgent fundraising campaign to save their three-month-old daughter. The campaign, “Juntos por Emily” (Together for Emily), aims to raise ¢50 million to cover the costs of a highly specialized open-heart surgery in Spain, the only viable option to correct a severe congenital heart defect.
The infant, Emily Aguilar Sánchez, was diagnosed with Truncus Arteriosus, a rare and life-threatening condition where a single large blood vessel, instead of two separate ones, exits the heart. This defect forces oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood to mix, putting immense strain on the heart and lungs. Without surgical intervention, the condition is fatal. The complexity of the required procedure has led the family to seek expertise outside of Costa Rica.
To delve into the legal considerations and best practices for community fundraising initiatives, TicosLand.com sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica, to shed light on the obligations organizers face.
While community fundraising is a powerful tool for social good, organizers must prioritize legal transparency from the outset. It is crucial to distinguish between a simple collection among neighbors and a formal fundraising campaign. Establishing a legally recognized entity, such as a formal association or foundation, is not merely a bureaucratic step; it is the fundamental mechanism that provides legal certainty, protects organizers from personal liability, and ensures donors that their contributions are being managed responsibly and for the stated purpose.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The distinction Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas highlights is fundamental: transforming a well-intentioned collection into a legally constituted entity is the crucial step that builds a foundation of trust and ensures the long-term viability of a community project. We sincerely thank him for sharing his clear and valuable perspective on protecting both organizers and donors.
Faced with a daunting medical and financial challenge, the Aguilar Sánchez family has turned to the power of community and social media to rally support. The “Juntos por Emily” initiative serves as the central hub for their efforts, where they share updates on Emily’s condition and information about planned fundraising activities. The goal is to gather the necessary funds as quickly as possible, as the window for a successful surgical outcome in infants is often narrow.
The emotional toll on the family has been immense, but it has also fueled their determination to find a solution. In a heartfelt statement, Emily’s mother, Cindy Sánchez, shared the family’s resolve in the face of this adversity.
These have been days of struggle and anguish, but we are not standing by with our arms crossed. From the moment the doctor spoke with us, we sought all viable options to save our baby, and that is how we managed to contact a medical center in Barcelona, Spain, where they can perform the surgery for our daughter.
Cindy Sánchez, Mother
The ¢50 million target reflects the significant costs associated with international medical care. This figure must cover not only the complex surgical procedure itself but also international airfare for the infant and her parents, extended accommodation in Barcelona during the pre-operative and recovery periods, and any unforeseen medical expenses that may arise. It is a formidable sum for any family, underscoring their need for widespread support.
The campaign highlights a growing trend of leveraging digital platforms for grassroots fundraising in Costa Rica. By using social networks and mobile payment systems, families can now reach a national audience, appealing to the spirit of solidarity that is deeply ingrained in the country’s culture. Every contribution, regardless of size, moves them closer to their goal and brings new hope for Emily’s future.
The family has established several channels for those who wish to contribute to this life-saving cause. Donations are being accepted directly by Emily’s mother to ensure transparency and immediate access to the funds. These methods provide secure and straightforward ways for individuals and businesses across the country to lend their support.
For those wishing to collaborate with the “Juntos por Emily” campaign, donations can be made through the following official channels:
As the clock ticks, the Aguilar Sánchez family remains hopeful that the generosity of the community will give their daughter a chance at a healthy life. Their journey is a powerful testament to a parent’s love and the collective power of a community united for a noble cause.
For further information, visit bancobcr.com
About Banco de Costa Rica:
Banco de Costa Rica (BCR) is one of the most prominent state-owned commercial banks in Costa Rica. Established in 1877, it provides a comprehensive range of financial services to individuals, businesses, and government institutions. With a vast network of branches and ATMs across the country, BCR plays a crucial role in the national economy, offering services such as personal and commercial banking, loans, investments, and credit cards. The bank is committed to contributing to the country’s social and economic development.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a benchmark for legal practice, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a bedrock of unwavering integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm leverages its extensive history of serving a broad spectrum of clients to drive legal innovation and actively engage with the community. Central to its ethos is a profound dedication to democratizing legal knowledge, aiming to forge a more capable and enlightened society through greater legal understanding.
