Rickmar’s Journey Toward Healing and Transformation

 

What would you do if tragedy struck, leaving you scarred and without a vital part of your identity? How would you face a world that judges based on appearances while you bear the scars of a life-altering accident? For Rickmar, a young boy from south-central Philippines, these questions became a stark reality in December 2004.

Rickmar was just seven years old when he and his friends played with gasoline, unaware of the impending danger. The explosion that followed changed the course of his life forever. While his friends escaped with minor injuries, Rickmar suffered severe burns and lost his entire nose.

 

With limited financial means, the family sought treatment at a public hospital in Cebu, where they stayed for four months. His wounds were dressed, but the severity of his burns prevented doctors from restoring his nose. The physical pain was just the start of his journey, as he also had to confront the emotional scars and the harsh judgment from society.

To cope, Rickmar sought solace in his faith. Attending a local church near his home became a source of strength and deepened his connection with God. “I just accepted the fact that what happened to me was an accident, and I will have to grow up without a nose,” Rickmar recalls.

Unbeknownst to him, 400 kilometers away was a children’s hospital that could provide the surgical care he needed to reconstruct his nose. Thanks to his mother’s childhood friend, who also attended the same church, Rickmar discovered Tebow CURE and a renewed sense of hope for a life-changing transformation.

 

 

The journey was not an easy one. Dr. Andrew Hodges, CURE’s Lead Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, recalls their first meeting. “I was amazed that he did not hesitate to agree to any type and number of procedures that we suggested. I was humbled by his willingness to put himself in our hands.”

The medical team began the challenging task of reconstructing Rickmar’s nose with a delicate surgery, the first of its kind at Tebow CURE. They encountered setbacks, but Rickmar’s resolute spirit propelled them forward. “Rickmar was insistent that we keep trying,” shares Dr. Andrew. And try they did.

Following a series of surgeries, Rickmar demonstrated unwavering faith and exceeded all expectations. The reconstruction of his nose not only restored his physical appearance but also instilled in him a newfound sense of self-assurance. “I feel more confident now when I connect with others,” he reveals.

Inspired by the compassionate care he received at Tebow CURE, he aspires to work at the hospital one day, providing hope and healing to other children facing disabilities. Because of your unwavering support and partnership, children like Rickmar can rewrite their stories and transcend their scars.

 

Learn how CURE Philippines provides surgical care to the most vulnerable children around the world.