Saving a Life

The Melaleuca Foundation has a longstanding partnership with a special orphanage in Quito, Ecuador named the Santa Lucia Children’s Home. Thanks to the generous monthly donations of Marketing Executives around the country, the Melaleuca Foundation is this orphanage’s sole financial provider.

Recently, Melaleuca learned about a remarkable event at the orphanage surrounding a baby girl with dark brown eyes named Andrea. We want to share her inspirational story with the many donors who have given her a bright future.

Unfortunately, when Andrea was carried through the orphanage’s wrought iron gate at six months old, she was dangerously malnourished. During her medical exam, doctors revealed Andrea had a serious cognitive development problem. It was unlikely that she would ever learn to walk or talk, they said.

Over the next eight months, the orphanage’s head nun, Sor Inez, watched as Santa Lucia’s caregivers lovingly nursed Andrea back to health. Andrea’s rapid improvement surprised everybody at the home. They even celebrated the moments when Andrea defied the odds by taking her first steps and saying a few words to her Santa Lucia family.

Beyond a miraculous physical recovery, Andrea’s good fortune has continued. As a result of Santa Lucia’s entire team (and with the help of the Melaleuca family), Andrea was recently adopted.

Four months ago, little Andrea gained a new family. She left the orphanage through the same wrought iron gate in the loving arms of her new mother and father. She now lives with them in the United States.

Andrea’s story of hope will forever hold a special part of our hearts. Through the Melaleuca Foundation, you have helped to create a bright future. And you have helped to save this life.

Visit melaleuca.org to learn more about the Melaleuca Foundation and the charitable work performed at the Santa Lucia Children's Home.