A great host family for Junior
Junior, a 6-year-old Rwandan boy who underwent surgery in Nantes last month, spent his stay in a wonderful host family, which is not his first commitment to the Association.
A supportive family
The family includes Nicolas, an oyster farmer, Cynthia, who works alongside him at the markets and manages the company's accounts, and their sons Lilian (15), Enzo (12) and Aaron (9). They welcomed a heart child for the first time in 2016. Moved by this interlude in their lives, they have received a child every year since.
In addition to their role as host families, Cynthia and Nicolas carry out solidarity initiatives to benefit children with heart disease. As oyster farmers, in 2019 they organized "La Bourriche du Cœur", an operation that raised over €600 for the Association. A keen sportsman, Nicolas also took part in the "Étape du Tour de France", raising funds in the process.
When a child is taken into care, it is essential that at least one of the parents is totally available for the child for an average of 6 to 8 weeks. This means rethinking their daily routine and organization. At home, it's Cynthia who puts aside her work in the company to devote herself to the little heart they receive.
"Fortunately, our sons are grown up and get involved a lot! When we welcome babies, the eldest sometimes helps me change diapers and give them baths, and the two youngest play with them like big brothers."
Welcoming Junior
All together, they went to Nantes station on September 6 to meet Junior. They were delighted to discover a smiling, mischievous 6-year-old boy. But the smiles of the first day gave way to a touch of the blues the very next day. An unknown country, a different climate, the language barrier... so many new things that Junior had trouble understanding. Fortunately, they were able to count on the help of a translator who found the words to help Junior chase away his dark clouds in just 48 hours.
The first medical examinations were also beneficial for Junior who, at the age of 6, clearly understood the need for an operation to treat his heart. He showed great courage, understanding and calm during the operation on September 14. Junior had his atrial septal defect closed by interventional catheterization at Nantes hospital. The operation was a success, and the little fellow was soon back on his feet to enjoy his convalescence with his brothers at heart.
His stay ended on a high note with a final day in the Vendée Globe village. With amazed eyes, Junior had the chance to visit the great boat Initiatives-Cœur with a guide of choice: skipper Samantha Davies, who is preparing to take the start of the race on November 8!
The next day, it was with a heavy heart that Cynthia, Nicolas, Lilian, Enzo and Aaron took Junior back to Nantes airport. As he left, he told the interpreter that he was sad to be leaving his host family, but very happy to be returning home to his parents in Rwanda... No doubt they were delighted to have their son back in good health!
