A couple from Lanzarote is facing a difficult situation after the hospitalization of their 13-year-old daughter, who has been transferred to the juvenile psychiatric ward of Gran Canaria to receive treatment for mental health problems.
The family has been dealing with the minor's illness for several years, which has led to multiple visits to the emergency room due to self-harm and suicide attempts. This situation has tested not only their daughter's mental health but also the emotional and financial resilience of her parents.
Since they moved to Lanzarote when the girl was just three years old, her parents have witnessed their daughter's struggles both in school and in her personal life. According to a statement, "the lack of adequate resources in the Lanzarote healthcare system for the treatment of mental health in minors has led to judicial intervention," resulting in the order to hospitalize their daughter in Gran Canaria. This change has posed "a logistical and financial challenge" for the family, who must now travel between islands to be close to their daughter.
The parents have decided to travel to Gran Canaria on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and every weekend to provide emotional support to the minor during her treatment. However, the costs of these trips, added to the need for accommodation and food, are creating a significant economic burden. "Traveling is not cheap and all we need is help for essential trips," says her father, who, along with her mother, is looking for ways to raise funds to stay close to their daughter in this critical moment.
The family has already exceeded the goal of 5,000 euros that had been set, with 95 donations.
The situation has become even more distressing for the family, as the hospital has emphasized the importance of their continued presence in the girl's recovery process. "She waits for us and prays to see us. To say that this has shattered us is an understatement," says the mother, visibly affected by her daughter's anguish in statements to GoFundme.
Despite the pain, the couple feels fortunate to have understanding employers who allow them to take time off work when necessary, but the financial reality remains a major concern.
In an effort to facilitate these trips, her parents have started raising funds and have received support from friends who are willing to donate. They have set up an envelope at the Decky Dillons bar in Matagorda for those who wish to contribute. "Any small donation will help us spend more time with the minor, offering her the love and support she needs to improve," they conclude, hoping that their community will help them overcome this difficult stage.