Children in Tijuana Have New Reason to Smile

Together Corazon de Vida and Dra. Solis are Providing Access to Dental Care for Children in Tijuana Orphanages

Corazon de Vida (CDV) is a non-profit organization that supports the orphanages of Baja, Mexico by raising contributions in the form of money, material and volunteer work to benefit and empower the children of Baja. Currently CDV is helping to feed, clothe, shelter and educate over 750 children each day.

For some, it's their first visit to a dentist

Due to high numbers of children in the orphanages, many do not see the dentist on a regular basis and are only taken if they are in extreme pain. Recently CDV was referred to Dra. Sandra Luz Solis, a dentist located in Tijuana, by one of their orphanage directors who wanted to help with dental needs.

A few children were experiencing dental pain so they were taken to Dra. Solis, where she resolved these issues over several weeks, charging only for the cost of materials. Her husband, Dr. Candelario Gomez Galvez, also consulted with those who had medical issues.

As CDV came across other children located at their nine other Tijuana homes who also had dental pain, they asked if she could also help them too. Without hesitation, Dra. Solis said yes.

“Our kids rarely see a dentist due to cost and we only take them if they’re in pain,” said George Perez, board member with Corazon de Vida. “Therefore, most have extreme dental issues on their permanent teeth that require root canals, numerous fillings, and braces. Many have never been to a dentist and they are in their early teens.”

Dra. Solis gives a dental exam

Dra. Solis installed braces for three teenagers at minimal cost who were in extreme need. These children had horrendous issues, causing them to never smile due to embarrassment.

“Installing braces was a life changing moment for these teens,” said Perez. “Not only did their smiles return, you could see their self-esteem, confidence and character begin to rise.”

Five children from the Hacienda had appointments at Dra. Solis’ office but had to cancel due to no driver available to take the children to the appointment. The doctor at that time gathered her husband and daughter (who is in dental school) and went to the orphanage instead and checked every children and adult – about 80 residents. Eight children whose situations were critical will have follow-up appointments soon to resolve their dental pain.

“Dra. Solis is truly a blessing,” said Perez.

Dra. Solis is always available for emergencies and has allowed USA dentists to use her office as a dental mission site

Contact information for Dra. Solis:

Dra. Sandra Solis
1331 Lopez Portillo Pointe
Otay Mesa, Tijuana, B.C., Mexico
664-647-3119
gomegalve@hotmail.com

More information on dental missions to the orphanages: http://www.active.com/donate/teamcdv/dental

“Any help to build our dental fund would be appreciated.”

Each month, Corazon de Vida orchestrates bus visits to the orphanages, leaving from Los Angeles, Irvine and San Diego. These multi-purpose trips deliver food, supplies, gifts and other life necessities. The next bus trip scheduled to visit El Faro / Los Angelitos Orphanage on July 16, 2011: 

July 16, 2011 CdV Bus To The El Faro/Los Angelitos Orphanage, Tijuana, Mexico

Participation on a trip costs $40, which covers the cost of the bus and lunch. To sign up for this life changing experience, go to http://corazondevida.eventbrite.com/

Upcoming Fundraising Events for Corazon de Vida:

Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Sweet Dreams 2011 – Buy tickets here
Beach Grass Cafe – Solana Beach, CA

Thursday, July 28, 2011
La Notte Bianca 2011 ~ A Night In Tuscany For The Kids – Buy tickets here
Thursday, July 28, 2011 From 6:00pm – 9:30pm
Santa Ana, CA

www.corazondevida.org

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Susie Albin-Najera
Susie Albin-Najera is the creator and editor of The Mexico Report, an award winning travel blog showcasing news, deals and resources for the modern traveler. Najera is a writer, author, travel blogger, marketing and public relations specialist and producer. Najera serves on the host committee for Maestro Cares, founded by singer Marc Anthony and producer Henry Cardenas; and on the advisory board for Corazon de Vida, providing aid to children in Mexico. She is also the creator of 'The Real Heroes of Mexico' showcasing community heroes in Mexico and producer of Latino Thought Makers. Najera has been recognized by the Mexican Consulate and Mexico Tourism Board for fostering positive relations between countries and her dedication to showcasing Mexico as a premiere destination. She can be reached at info@themexicoreport.com

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