The daughter of a surgeon, she had never walked in her life until a homeless child said, “Let me try.” Dr. Eduardo Hernandez watched his daughter Valeria in the mirror of the physiotherapy room of the San Angel hospital in Mexico City, while remaining immobile in a special wheelchair.
At 2 and a half years old, the blonde girl had never taken a single step and each consultation with the best specialists in the country had brought the same discouraging diagnosis. That’s when she felt someone gently tug at her white coat. Looking down, she saw a boy about four years old
With smooth brown hair and worn clothes that seemed to have seen better days.
“Doc, are you the blonde girl’s father?” the boy asked, pointing at Valeria. Eduardo was taken aback by the question. How did that child get into the hospital unaccompanied? He was about to call security when the child continued. I can walk her. I know how to help her. Child, no
You should be here alone. Where are your parents? Eduardo replied, trying to maintain his patience.
I don’t have parents, doctor, but I know things that will help your child. I learned to take care of my little sister before she left. Something about the child’s seriousness made Eduardo doubt it. Valeria, who always remained indifferent during the sessions, turned to where they were
Speaking and stretched her small arms out to the mirror. “What’s your name?” Eduardo asked, bending down to get to the child’s level.
“My name is Mateo, Doc. I have been sleeping there on the bench in the plaza, in front of the hospital, for two months. I go every day and look at his daughter through the window. Eduardo’s heart is pounding, like a boy who lives on the street and still worries about Valeria. Matthew, what do you know about
Helping children who can’t walk? My brother was born that way.
My mother taught me some special exercises that helped him get better. She even touched his feet before leaving. Eduardo felt a knot in his chest. I had tried all the conventional treatments, spent a fortune on international specialists and nothing worked. What could I do
To lose by letting that boy try? Doctor Hernández.
Physiotherapist Daniela’s voice echoed in the hallway. Valeria’s session was over. There was no answer today either. Daniela, I want you to meet Mateo. He has ideas about exercises for Valeria. The physiotherapist looked at the boy with doubt. Doctor, with all due respect,
A street kid doesn’t have the medical knowledge to let me try, please. Mateo was interrupted. Only 5 minutes.
If he doesn’t answer, I promise I’ll leave and never come back. Dear listener, if you enjoyed the story, take the opportunity to leave a like and above all subscribe to the channel. It helps a lot for those of us who are just starting out. Eduardo looked at Valeria, who for the first time in months showed interest in
something.
The girl clapped her hands and smiled as she looked at Mateo. Finally she said, “But I’ll watch every move.” Mateo entered the physiotherapy room and cautiously approached Valeria. The girl looked at him in surprise. Her blue eyes were shining in a way Eduardo had never seen before.
many. “Hello, princess,” Mateo said softly.
Do you want to play with me? Valeria couldn’t understand a few incomprehensible words and stretched out her small arms towards the child. Mateo sat on the floor next to the chair and began to sing a soft melody while carefully massaging the girl’s feet. What was he doing? Daniela whispered to Eduardo.
Apparently, it looked like a reflexology technique, Eduardo replied in surprise. Where would a 4-year-old child learn this? Mateo continued singing and massaging, alternating between Valeria’s feet and legs. To everyone’s surprise, the girl began to make sounds of pleasure and her legs, usually
Apparently, it looks like a reflexology technique, Eduardo replied in surprise. Where would a 4-year-old learn this? Mateo continued singing and massaging, alternating between Valeria’s feet and legs. To everyone’s surprise, the girl began to make sounds of pleasure and her legs, usually
They seemed to relax more. “This is the only time Valeria has reacted like this to any treatment,” Eduardo whispered as he approached.
“She loves music,” Mateo explained without stopping his movements. All the children liked it. My mother said that music awakens the sleeping parts of the body. Little by little, something extraordinary began to happen. Valeria slightly moved the little toe of her left foot.
The movement was almost imperceptible, but Eduardo, who was used to observing every little sign, noticed it immediately. “Daniela, did you see that?” he whispered. It was definitely an involuntary spasm, the physiotherapist replied, but his voice indicated uncertainty. Matt continued for a few more minutes
until Valeria cried out and showed fatigue. “That’s enough for today,” the young man said, standing up. He was very tired.
Mateo called Eduardo as the boy was on his way to the door. Where did you learn to do that? My mother was a nurse before she got sick. I took care of special children at the hospital in our city. When my youngest sister was born with a leg problem, she taught me everything I could to help her. And where is your
Mom now? Matthew’s face was sad.
She left three months ago. She got very sick and never got better. After she left, I went to Mexico City because she always talked about this hospital. She said the best doctors were here. Eduardo felt a lump in his throat. That child lost his mother and he was still thinking
Help the other children.
Matthew, where do you live? In the square opposite. There is a bench under a large tree that protects from the rain. It can’t go on like this. You’re just a child. I’m fine, Doc. Now I have a reason to stay, to help Valeria. That night Eduardo couldn’t sleep. He was left thinking
about the child alone in the square and Valeria’s unprecedented reaction to his care.
The next morning he arrived at the hospital early and found Mateo sitting on a bench in the square and waiting. “Good morning, Doc,” the young man greeted cheerfully. “Matthew, come with me. I want to introduce you to someone.” Eduardo took the child to the office of Dr. Patricia Vega, a child neuropsychiatrist and
One of his most respected colleagues.
Patricia, this is Mateo. Yesterday he received an answer from Valeria that none of us had received. Dr. Patricia, a woman with gray hair and a kind look, was watching Mateo with interest. Tell me about the exercises you did with Valeria Mateo. The young man explained in detail
Demonstrating movements with his own hands.
The doctor listened carefully and asked specific questions. It was fascinating, he said. Finally, Mateo, you described a neurosensory stimulation technique that is usually known only to specialized physiotherapists. Where exactly did your mother learn about that? She always talked about a doctor
who came to teach a course in our city. Dr.
Wong, I think that was his name, said that he taught exercises that helped special children. Dr. Patricia and Eduardo exchanged glances. Dr. Wu Wong W is a world reference in pediatric neurorehabilitation. Matthew, Dr. Patricia said softly. Do you still remember the name of the city where
Do you live with your mother? Monterrey. My mother’s name is Carmen Flores and she works at the University Hospital there.
Eduardo immediately picked up the phone and called the hospital. After a few transfers, he managed to talk to the head nurse Carmen Flores, of course I remember her, one of the best professionals who worked there. She participated in an international neurorehabilitation course in 2020 with
Dr. Wong. We were saddened to hear of his passing.
He left behind a young son, but we lost contact. Eduardo hung up the phone with tears in his eyes. Mateo, your mother is truly an extraordinary professional and you learned very advanced techniques from her, so I can continue to help Valeria. Not only you, but you must, replied
Dr. Patricia. But we need to resolve your situation first.
You can’t continue living on the street. I’m fine, doctor. I don’t want to be a burden to anyone. Mateo said as Eduardo knelt in front of the child. You won’t be a burden, you will be a blessing. How about you stay at my house while you help Valeria? I have a spare room and you can
Be close to the hospital every day.
Mateo’s eyes filled with tears. Will you do that for me? I want to and I will do it, but first I want you to promise me something. If at any time you feel uncomfortable or want to leave, just tell me, okay? I promise, doctor. That afternoon Mateo went home with Eduardo.
The surgeon’s residence was elegant, but comfortable, located in an exclusive area of Mexico City. Eduardo’s wife, Mariana, was waiting for them at the door. “So you’re Mateo,” she said with a smile. Eduardo told me about you. Welcome to our home. Mariana was a retired teacher, a
sweet 50-year-old woman who had always wanted to have more children.
Hearing Mateo’s story, her mother’s heart was touched. “Matthew, come, I want to show you your room,” she said, and led the boy up the stairs. The room was simple, but comfortable, with a small bed, a wardrobe, and a window overlooking a flower-filled garden. “Is this
“Is this really mine?” Mateo asked, carefully holding the blanket.
“It’s yours as long as you want,” Mariana replied, stroking the child’s hair. That evening over dinner, Mateo told them more about his life with his mother. Eduardo and Mariana listened with great pleasure to the stories of a boy who grew up early, but who still had purity and generosity in his heart.
Mateo, Eduardo said, tomorrow I will talk to the hospital management to make your participation in Valeria’s treatment official. You will work with the medical team. Seriously, I can really help. You can and will, but I also want you to do other things that children your age do.
Playing, studying, having fun. The next day, Mateo began his work at the hospital.
Every morning he worked with Valeria for two hours applying the techniques he had learned from his mother. The afternoons were devoted to normal activities when she was a child. Mariana took her to the park. Buy They gave her coloring books and she started studying at a small school near the house. The results
In Valeria they were surprised. Every day she answered more and more.
She started to move her toes voluntarily, then her ankles. Mateo always sang the songs her mother taught her and Valeria smiled and talked. “Doctor Hernandez,” Daniel said to the physical therapist after a week. “I have to admit that I was wrong
about Mateo. Valeria’s progress is amazing and real,” confirmed Dr. Patricia, who was supervising the sessions.
The neurological tests showed activity in areas of the brain that were previously inactive, but not everything was rosy. Dr. Alejandro Martínez, head of the neurology department, did not look favorably on Mateo’s presence at the hospital. “Eduardo, this is nonsense,” he said during the
a medical meeting. “We cannot allow a child with no medical training to treat patients and if something goes wrong, the hospital will be held responsible.
“Alejandro, the results speak for themselves. Mateo is not doing anything that could cause harm, he is only applying massage and stimulation techniques that have been proven safe. And our credibility, what will other hospitals say when they know that we are using a street child as a therapist?
Eduardo was outraged by his colleague’s misconduct.
Mateo is not a street child, he is a child who lost his mother and has unique knowledge that helps my daughter. If this bothers you, the problem is yours, not ours. The discussion heated up and Dr. Alejandro threatened to take the case to the General Directorate of the Hospital.
Eduardo knew that he would face resistance, but he did not expect it to come from his own colleagues. That night at home, Mateo noticed that Eduardo was worried. Doc, if I have a problem, I can stop helping Valeria. Matthew, you are not causing trouble. There are people who
You have a hard time accepting different things, but that doesn’t mean you should give up.
My mother always said that when we do good we find resistance from people who don’t understand, but the important thing is to keep doing what is right. Your mother is a wise woman. Dear Listeners, if you enjoyed the story, take the opportunity to leave your preferences and, above all, subscribe to
the channel. It helps us who are starting strong now. Keep going.
The following week the situation became complicated. Dr. Alejandro gained the support of other conservative doctors and filed a formal complaint with the management, questioning the unscientific methods applied to patients at the hospital. The general director, Dr. Roberto Gutiérrez, a serious man of
At the age of 60, Eduardo was summoned to a meeting.
Eduardo, I understand your situation as a father, but I have to think about the institution. We have protocols to follow. Dr. Roberto, you can personally review the results. Valeria showed progress that she had not experienced in two years of conventional treatment. I understand this, but there is also
the legal aspect.
If something happens during those sessions, who will be responsible? I take full responsibility. Mateo always works under my direct supervision. It is not that simple. The Medical Ethics Council could question our procedures. Eduardo left the meeting because he knew that Mateo was in danger of
Valeria’s treatment being withdrawn.
That afternoon he talked to Marian about the situation. “Honey, we can’t give up now,” he said. “Valeria is getting better and Mateo has found a family. We have to fight for it. But if the hospital officially forbids it, I have no choice. Then we will look for another way. We can continue
Treatment at home with private medical follow-up. The next morning, something unexpected happened.
Mateo arrived at the hospital earlier than usual and saw an elegant woman watching Valeria in the mirror of the therapy room. “Excuse me,” Mateo said politely. “Are you looking for someone?” The woman turned around and Mateo saw a woman in her 70s. with neatly combed white hair
and beautiful clothes.
“You must be Matthew,” she said with a smile. “I am Doña Guadalupe, Valeria’s grandmother. I have heard a lot about you.” Mateo was surprised. Eduardo had not yet mentioned the girl’s grandmother. “Are you Dr. Eduardo’s mother?” No, dear. I am the mother of Mariana, Eduardo’s first wife.
I visit Valeria every week, but this time I wanted to come earlier to meet you. Mateo is confused. Mariana is Eduardo’s wife, but Doña Guadalupe is the one who spoke about the first wife. Excuse me, ma’am, but I don’t understand. Doña Guadalupe noticed the child’s confusion. Eduardo is not
I told you about Sofia, right? She is Valeria’s biological mother. They separated when they found out that the girl had developmental problems. Mateo’s world seemed to collapse. He became affectionate
He was in Eduardo’s family. He felt loved and accepted, but now he discovered that there were important secrets that he did not know. Where was Valeria’s mother? Sofia now lives in Guadalajara. She was struggling to accept her daughter’s condition and had chosen to leave.
Eduardo took full custody of Valeria.
Mateo silently accepted that information. Suddenly many things made sense. The empty room in Eduardo’s house, his intense dedication to his daughter, the loving but sad way Mariana treated Valeria. the fans’ choice: Doña Guadalupe, I want you to know that I’m lost
I am grateful for what you are doing for my grandchildren. I follow their progress and I know that this is the result of your work. I just wanted
to help you walk, Doña Guadalupe. And you succeeded, my love, more than a success. At that moment, Eduardo arrived at the hospital and was surprised to see his mother-in-law talking to Mateo. Guadalupe, I did not know that you were going today. I met this man who was helping us
Valeria.
Eduardo noticed Mateo’s thoughtful expression and realized that his grandmother had told him about Sofia. Matthew, can we talk? The two moved to a more private corner. You’ve heard about Sofia, haven’t you? Mateo nodded. Why didn’t she tell me? Eduardo sighed. Because it was
A painful part of our lives. Sofia couldn’t accept that Valeria was born with a limitation.
She considered the girl a failure, a shame. When Valeria was 6 months old and the doctors confirmed that she would have developmental problems, Sofia simply said that she couldn’t handle it and left. It must have been very difficult. That was. But I met Mariana, who loved Valeria as if she were her
own daughter. Now, you’ve come into our lives.
Maybe Sofia left because you both needed to get there. Matt smiled for the first time that morning. I love her, Mariana, she is affectionate with me and she loves you like a son, Mateo. We both love you. The conversation was interrupted when Dr. Alejandro arrived with Dr. Roberto. Eduardo
I need to talk to you now, said Dr. Alejandro sec, Mateo, go start the session with Valeria.
I will find out, said Eduardo. Mateo entered the room where Valeria was waiting for him. The young woman was happy and cheerful to see him. That day she seemed to be happy. “Hello, princess,” said Mateo as he approached the chair. “Today, we are going to try something new.” The usual routine of
massage and song, but this time he was in a different position with Valeria, who was sitting on the edge of a low table with her feet touching the floor.
“We are going to try to feel the ground, Valeria. Let’s pretend we are stepping on the sand at the beach.” Mateo held the girl’s hands and began to move up and down as if she were jumping. He was surprised when Valeria strained her legs, as if she was really trying
to jump. Good, princess. You’ll get there.
Outside, Guadalupe watched through the window and was moved by the scene. This was the first time she had ever seen Valeria try to move her legs on her own. Meanwhile, in the hallway, the doctors’ conversation grew more intense. Eduardo, I have received a formal complaint about the procedures that were not
Hospital scientists, Dr. Roberto said.
Unfortunately, I have to suspend the sessions until we can fully assess the situation. Dr. Roberto, please see what is happening in the physiotherapy room before making any decisions.
The three doctors approached the window of the room and were silent as they watched Mateo work with Valeria. The girl was clearly trying to respond to the stimuli, moving her legs like she had never done before. “This is extraordinary,” Dr. Roberto whispered. “These are technically
unproven applied by an unqualified child,” Dr. Alejandro insisted.
Alejandro, Guadalupe said, approaching the group, with all due respect, but what you consider unproven is knowledge that my grandson has never had access to. In two years of treatment, he has never shown these reactions. You do not understand the risks involved. The
I understand completely.
I understand that they are afraid to admit that a 4-year-old child has achieved results that qualified doctors cannot. The tension is palpable as a nurse runs down the hall. Doctor Eduardo, Dr. Eduardo, quickly arrives to see Valeria. Everyone runs to the therapy room. When
they arrive, they see something that will forever be etched in their memories.
Valeria is standing, leaning against the stretcher while Mateo holds her hands. The girl’s legs are shaking from the effort, but she is carrying her own weight. “Dad,” Valeria gasps as she looks at Eduardo. Those are the first words she has ever spoken. Edward kneels and
stretches out his arms. “Come closer to your father, princess.”
Matthew, still holding Valeria’s hands, slowly began to guide her towards her father. They were only three steps, but they were the first steps Valeria had taken in almost three years of her life. Dr. Alejandro was speechless. Tears welled up in Dr. Roberto’s eyes. Guadeloupe
She cried openly.
“Now tell me,” Eduardo said, hugging Valeria, that this was not scientific. That afternoon, the news spread throughout the hospital. Nurses, doctors, and staff members went to the therapy room to greet Mateo and Valeria. The young woman repeated these steps.
Dr. Roberto called an emergency meeting with the entire medical team. Colleagues, we are witnessing something extraordinary today.
Regardless of our opinions on conventional methods, we cannot ignore the concrete results. But how can we explain this scientifically, a neurologist asked. “We will document everything,” replied Dr. Roberto. “We will make this case an official study. Mateo will have
This is being followed by a multidisciplinary team, but their methods will continue to be considered.
“Dr. Alejandro tried to protest, but it was a minority vote. Most of the doctors were convinced that there was something special about Matthew’s work. In the weeks that followed, Mateo became a minor celebrity at the hospital. Journalists wanted to interview him, but Eduardo pushed him away. In his privacy, only doctors and researchers observed him. Dr. Wong, the Chinese specialist who had taught Mateo’s mother, got in touch and agreed to come to Mexico to observe the boy’s work. When he arrived, two weeks later, he was impressed. “This boy has a natural intuition for neurorehabilitation,” he said after observing several sessions. He used methods that were naturally suited to the child’s specific needs. But how is this possible? Eduardo asked. Sometimes knowledge is passed from person to person in ways we can’t fully explain. His mother was an extraordinary student, and she wasn’t the only one taking care of him
Methods, but the essence of the treatment.
Dr. Wong worked with Mateo for a week, refining his techniques and teaching him new exercises. The child showed a surprising ability to learn and adapt to the lessons. Valeria continues to progress. She can stand on her own for a few seconds and take more stable steps with support.
But the most important thing is her emotional transformation.
He always smiled, talked and showed interest in everything around him. At home, Mateo was adjusting even more to his new life. Mariana enrolled him in a nearby private school where he quickly became known for his intelligence and kindness. The teachers were impressed
by his age. “Mateo is a special child,” the teacher told Mariana.
He had a natural empathy and always helped his teammates. It was as if he was born to take care of others. But not everything was peaceful in the boy’s life. Sometimes, especially at night, he would wake up crying, calling for his mother. Mariana always comforted him by talking about Carmen and worrying about her.
May your memory live on.
“Mateo, your mother must be proud of you,” Mariana said as she stroked the boy’s hair. She taught you to be kind and generous, and now you are using those gifts to help others. I miss Aunt Mariana so much. I know, my love. It’s normal to miss her, but remember that her love is already here
Inside your heart and will never go away.
Dear listeners, if you enjoyed the story, don’t forget to like it and, above all, subscribe to the channel. That helps us start big. Now let’s continue. Two months after Valeria’s first step, something unexpected happened. Sofia, the girl’s biological mother,
She arrived at the hospital.
Eduardo was with Mateo and Valeria in a session when the secretary called him. Doctor Eduardo, there was a woman at the reception who said she was Valeria’s mother. Eduardo’s heart beat faster. He hadn’t spoken to Sofia in over a year. Mateo, keep exercising. I’ll be back.
At the reception, Eduardo found Sofia exactly as he remembered her, tall, dark, elegant, but with an expression of coldness that always bothered him. Hello, Eduardo. Sofia, what are you doing here? I found out from my parents that Valeria was walking. I went to see if it was true. And why are you interested?
Now? Two years ago you said you didn’t want to hear from her. People change, Eduardo.
Maybe I was in a hurry. Eduardo felt angry and distrustful. Sofia, you can’t look like this after two years and want to be a part of Valeria’s life. In reality, I am her mother. I have a right. The conversation was interrupted when Valeria and Mateo arrived. The girl walked slowly, leaning on
Child, she was walking.
When she saw her father, she let go of Matthew’s hand and walked a few steps alone towards him. “Dad,” she said as she hugged Eduardo’s legs. Sofia was surprised, not only by seeing her daughter walking, but by the love she was treating Eduardo with. Her eyes shone with a mixture of surprise, admiration, and something else
It seemed like she was regretting it. “Valeria,” Sofia called softly. The girl looked at her without recognizing her.
To Valeria, she was a stranger. This is my friend Sofia, Eduardo said, not wanting to confuse the girl. “Hello,” Valeria said shyly, hiding behind Matthew. Sofia noticed the closeness between her daughter and the child. “Who are you?” she asked Mateo. I’m Mateo. Valeria is my friend and
I help her walk.
Are you helping her walk? How? Mateo briefly explained his methods and Sofia listened with even more amazement. The child looked four years old, but she spoke with the seriousness and knowledge of an adult. Eduardo, can we talk in private, Sofia asked. Mateo, you can continue taking care of Valeria
training. I’ll catch up with them in a moment. As the children walked, Sofia turned to Edward.
I couldn’t believe my eyes. Two years ago, the doctors said she wouldn’t walk. The doctors said it was probably not impossible, but you don’t want to wait to see it. Eduardo. I knew I was wrong. I was scared. I was sad. I couldn’t accept that our child was different. Valeria
It’s not different, Sofia. It’s special.
And if you stayed, you would know. What can I do now to make up for my mistake? Eduardo was silent for a moment. I don’t know if there’s a way to change what you did. Valeria doesn’t remember you. To her, Mariana is her mother. I’m her biological mother. I have rights. Rights
These are obtained through presence, care, love.
You gave them away when you left. The conversation became tense when Mariana arrived at the hospital. She picked up Mateo from school and headed straight to the hospital. When she saw Sofia, she stopped being surprised. Sofia. Mariana, I found out that you married Eduardo. yes, we got married a year ago And what about you?
What are you doing here? I came to see my pet. Valeria felt a knot in her chest.
Mariana was like a daughter to her and the thought of losing her was terrifying. “Son,” Valeria repeated, trying to stay calm. Mariana is not something you can pick up and drop whenever you want. Valeria, please, let’s not fight, Eduardo interjected. Let’s talk civilly. At that moment, Mateo
He appeared running. Uncle Eduardo. Marian walked alone to the window. Matthew, where is she? Aunt Guadalupe is with her in the living room. Grandma came to visit. Sofia was annoyed to hear Mateo call Eduardo uncle and refer to Guadalupe as grandma. Edward, who is this kid really and why is he treating you like
Family? Mateo is with us. We approved of it. They adopted a child without consulting me.
Sofia, you have no right to have an opinion on our decisions. You have renounced that right. The argument was interrupted when Guadalupe came to Mariana. Grandma immediately noticed the tension in the air. Sofia, what a surprise. Hello, Guadalupe. I learned about Mariana’s progress.
Guadalupe looked at Eduardo and Valeria, understanding the delicate situation. Mariana, my love, go play in the garden with grandma, Guadalupe said, noting that it would be better to take the girl out of that tense environment. “I want to be with Mateo,” Mariana said. Matthew can come too. How about you two
Play while the adults talk? When the children had left, Sofia turned to the others. I want to be with Marian. She is my daughter and I have the right to know her.
Sofia said softly to Valeria. I understand your feelings, but you need to think about what is best for Mariana. She does not know you. Sudden changes can affect your development. What development? You talk as if I am cured. No, she is not cured, Eduardo replied. Mariana still has limitations and always
She will have them, but she has learned to handle them, to overcome them and that happened because she was surrounded by love and patience.
And because of Mateo, Valeria added, that child changed the life of our entire family. Sofia spent the rest of the afternoon watching Mariana and Mateo interact. she saw how her daughter trusted the child, how she smiled when he sang, how he tried to walk because he wanted to make Mateo happy.
At the end of the day, Sofia asked to speak to Mateo alone. Matthew, can I ask a question? Of course, Mrs. Sofia. Why did you help Mariana? What do you get out of it? Mateo thought for a moment. I didn’t win anything. I just wanted to help her because when she smiles she remembers my little sister and when she can walk I feel
That my mother is proud of me. Your mother. My mother passed away a few months ago. She always told me to help others as much as I could. Helping Mariana was a way to continue what she had taught me. Sofia felt her heart ache. Her mother had lost her child, but she was still kind and generous, while she,
a healthy daughter and a wife who loved her, had fled at the first hardship.
Matthew, aren’t you fighting with me? Why? For leaving Mariana, for leaving me when she needed me the most. Mateo thought. My mother used to say that people do bad things when they’re scared or sad, but you can fix it if you really want to. Do you think I can
Fix it? I don’t know, that’s up to you.
But if you really want to help Mariana, you have to be patient. She doesn’t know her and she’s happy just like her. The wisdom of that 4-year-old child humiliated Sofia. She was worse than a woman. That night, Sofia had talked to Eduardo and Valeria for a long time.
He admitted his mistakes and asked for the chance to get to know Mariana little by little. Sofia, Eduardo said, I will not stop you from seeing Mariana, but I will set conditions. First, you must understand that Mariana is the mother that Valeria knows. Second, any approach must be slow and careful. Third, if
Sometimes this affects Valeria’s development, you must walk away.
I accept the conditions. And one more thing, Mariana added, Mateo is part of our family now. If you want to be part of Valeria’s life, you must accept that too. Sofia nodded, although inwardly she envied the influence this boy had on her daughter. Over the next few weeks,
Sofia visited Valeria regularly.
At first, the young woman was shy and suspicious, but she gradually got used to his presence. Sofia discovered that Valeria was more intelligent and loving than she had imagined. During one of those visits, Sofía witnessed a scene that left a deep impression on her. Valeria had
Fall and fell in the hospital garden. Instead of crying or asking for help from the adults, she looked around for Matthew.
When she saw him, she stretched out her little arms to him. Mateo helped her stand up and checked if she was hurt. Does it hurt, princess? No, Valeria replied. Mateo always helps me. Of course I will help you. We are family, aren’t we? Family, Valeria repeated, hugging the child.
Sofia admitted that this was not just a relationship between two children. In fact, they considered themselves siblings. And for the first time, instead of feeling jealous, Sofia felt grateful that Mateo existed in Valeria’s life. A few days later something happened that would change everything again. Mateo was playing
in the garden of Eduardo’s house when he started coughing violently.
At first everyone thought it was just a cold, but the cough quickly got worse. “Mateo, are you okay?” Mariana asked worriedly. “Yes, Tita Mariana. It was just a little cough. But at night, Mateo had a high fever and was having trouble breathing. Eduardo immediately took him to the hospital. According to the tests, Mateo had pneumonia. It was not serious, but he would have to stay in the hospital for a few days for treatment. This is common in needy children, the doctor explained. The body becomes weaker, but with the right treatment it will get better. Valeria was inconsolable when she learned that Mateo was sick. She refused to exercise and cried to see her friend. Valeria, Mateo is undergoing treatment to get better,” Eduardo explained. “He will be back in a few days. I want to see Mateo,” the girl insisted. Sofia, who was visiting that day, suggested, “Why don’t we take Valeria to visit Mateo in the hospital? Children can’t visit hospitalized patients,” Mariana recalled. “But Mateo is considered a hospital employee. Maybe
Make an exception.
Eduardo spoke to Dr. Roberto, who allowed Valeria to visit Mateo for a few minutes. When Valeria entered the room and saw Mateo in the hospital bed, she ran to him with difficulty walking, but determined. Matthew, are you sick? Just a moment, princess, but I am
Improving.
I brought this for you, Valeria said, and handed him a drawing she had made. It was a sheet full of colorful scribbles, but for Matthew it was the most precious gift in the world. Thank you, Valeria. I will keep it forever. The girl climbed onto the bed with Eduardo’s help and sat next to Mateo. When you come back,
Let’s play.
Of course. and I will teach you new exercises to make you even stronger. Sofia watched the scene shift. I understood that the love between these two children was real and special. He had been in the hospital for five days Mateo. At that moment, Valeria slightly retreated from her exercises, showing
How important their presence was to their progress.
When Mateo returned home, Valeria greeted him with infectious joy. She walked alone to surprise her friend. “Mateo, just look,” she said, taking a few steps without support. Princess, you are feeling better. That evening, during dinner, Sofia announced
unexpected. Eduardo, Mariana, I have made up my mind. I want to return to Mexico City. Sofia, are you sure? Eduardo asked.
I have. I want to be part of Valeria’s life, but in the right way. I don’t want to take it away from you. I just want to be close, to accompany your growth and your work in Guadalajara. They took me to the Mexico City office. I had already rented an apartment nearby.
Mateo, who had been listening to the conversation, asked, “Will Doña Sofía live near us?” Matthew said, “I hope we can be friends.” Of course. We are all friends with Valeria, so we are also friends with each other. Everyone laughed at Matthew’s simple thought. Over the months
A new family dynamic was established.
Sofia visited Valeria three times a week, accompanied her by several physiotherapy sessions and gradually developed a relationship with her daughter. Valeria began calling her Aunt Sofia, which at first offended her, but she understood that forcing a change would be bad. Over time, the young woman could
Choose what she wanted to call her. Mateo was still the center of Valeria’s development.
Now 4 1/2 years old, she had become a little authority on children’s physiotherapy at the hospital. Resident doctors came to observe her procedures and Dr. Wong returned twice to work with her. One day, during a particularly productive session, Valeria managed to run a few
How many meters. It was like a shaky and unstable race, but she was running.
“Valeria ran,” Mateo shouted happily. Everyone in the room applauded. Eduardo burst into tears with emotion. Marian recorded everything. Sofia, who was watching, was also moved. “Dad, I ran,” Valeria said proudly. “Yes, you did, princess. Papa would be so proud.” That night Sofia asked
Speak to Mateo privately. “Matthew, can I ask you a personal question?” “Of course.
Aren’t you jealous that I’m coming back into Valeria’s life?” Mateo thought for a moment. No, Valeria has a big heart. Many people love her, the more they love her, the better for her. You are such a smart child. My mother taught me that love does not become small when it is shared.
It got worse.
Sofia hugged the child, finally understanding why she was able to help Valeria in a way that the doctor could not. It was not just the physiotherapy techniques, it was the unconditional love that she offered her. Six months after Sofia returned, the family received shocking news. El Dr.
Wong had secured a scholarship for Mateo to participate in a special children’s physiotherapy program in Beijing, China. It was a unique opportunity, Dr. Wong explained.
Mateo could learn advanced techniques and become a skilled physiotherapist in the future. He was only four years old, Mariana protested. Mateo turned five today. My birthday was last week. Despite this, she is too young to travel alone abroad, Eduardo said. They can come with him, the
Dr. Wong.
The program also offers scholarships for families. Mateo was very excited about the idea, but at the same time he was worried. And Valeria? Who will help her if I leave? Matthew, Sofia said. Valeria has improved a lot. You can now continue exercising with the other physical therapists. I promised my mother that
I would take care of her. and you kept your promise, Eduardo said.
Valeria is now running, jumping, and playing like any other child. You have given her the gift of a normal life. Mariana added, it will only be one year. You will come back and help many other children with what you have learned there. Mateo had been thinking about the proposal for several days. He finally decided to accept, but
on one condition. he wanted Valeria to understand and approve of his trip.
In Talking to Valeria, Mateo explained that he was going to study in a distant place to learn how to help more children. “Are you coming back?” Valeria asked. “Yes, I will and when I get back I will learn the new exercises that will be taught to you.” Then you can leave, but you have to promise that you will come back. I will give it to you
And, I swear to you that it will be worth it :). The farewell was emotional.
The entire hospital gathered to say goodbye to Mateo. He had won the love of everyone, from the doctors to the cleaning staff. Although Valeria was sad, she was proud of her friend. Mateo was studying so that there would be more children like me. She told everyone. Dr. Alejandro, who had
Despite Matthew’s presence at the hospital, he gave a speech that was moved.
Mateo taught us that medicine is not just science, it is also heart, dedication and love. You are always welcome in this hospital. Eduardo, Mariana, and Mateo traveled to China early the following year. The program was intensive, but Matthew showed extraordinary academic ability.
Dr.
Wong was impressed by the boy’s progress. Mateo had a natural talent that I see in few qualified professionals, he told Eduardo. He would be an exceptional physiotherapist in the future. During the year in China, Mateo regularly communicated with Valeria via video calls. The young girl continued
Development and education in a regular school.
Sofia became a constant presence in Valeria’s life, eventually winning her daughter’s affection. Valeria began to call her Mama Sofia, who recognized her as Mama Mariana. When Mateo returned to Mexico, a year later he found a completely changed Valeria. Now almost 4
She was running, jumping and playing like any other child her age.
“Mateo!” he shouted, and ran to hug her at the airport. “Princess, how have you grown? I learned to ride a bike,” he boasted. “Seriously, I can’t wait to see it.” Back at the hospital, Mateo applied the new techniques he had learned in China.
Now, at the age of 6, he was officially recognized as a special consultant in children’s physiotherapy at the hospital. Doctors from abroad traveled to Mexico to learn about his work. Mateo has become a minor celebrity in the world, but he has not lost his humility and simplicity. Valeria, now 5
Over the years, he has become an ambassador for a special needs awareness campaign.
He has given speeches, clearly appropriate for his age, telling his story of overcoming. I can’t walk, I told the excited audience. Then my friend Mateo came along and taught me that I can do anything I want. I just have to try it in a different way. Sofia has finally remarried
to a pediatrician she met during Valeria’s consultations, but she has maintained her role in her daughter’s life, now as a present and involved mother.
Eduardo and Mariana decided to officially adopt Mateo, who at age 7 is already fluent in Spanish, English and Mandarin. He continued his work at the hospital and is preparing to enter a specialized medical program when he is an adult.
Dr. Wong moved to Mexico to run a pediatric physiotherapy research center, with Mateo as his primary collaborator. Mateo didn’t just change one child’s life, Dr. Wong said in an interview. He changed our entire understanding of the human potential for healing and
overcoming.
The Mateo Flores Wing was created at the hospital in honor of the child and his mother. It is a space dedicated to treating children with special needs, where conventional and alternative methods work together. Valeria, now 6 years old, took dance and artistic gymnastics classes. Her doctors were
Amazed by her coordination and strength. She also began helping Mateo with younger children who came to the hospital.
“Valeria is my special assistant,” Mateo joked. He knew what it was like not to be able to walk, so he understood the other little patients. On a special afternoon, 5 years after Mateo arrived at the hospital, the whole family gathered to celebrate Valeria’s tenth birthday. The little girl who
The doctors said she would never walk, was there running in the garden.
Playing with other children. Mateo said Valeria stopped next to her friend. Thank you for teaching me how to walk. Thank you for teaching me that miracles exist when there is true love, Mateo replied. Eduardo looked at his family, Mariana, his loving wife Mateo, the child that fate had given them
he brought, Valeria, his daughter who had overcome all limitations, and Sofia, who had learned to be a mother after almost missing that opportunity. Do you know
what is the most incredible thing about this whole story? He said to Mariana. What? If Mateo had not come into our lives, not only would we have missed the opportunity for Valeria to walk, we would have missed the opportunity to discover what we are capable of when we love without limits. That night,
Mateo wrote a letter to his mother, a tradition he had kept since he learned to write.
Mom, Valeria is now 10 years old. She is beautiful and strong. She can run, jump, dance. Everything you taught me works. You were right when you said that love heals all. Now I have a family and they love me as much as you love me, but I will never forget you.
All the good I do in life is because you taught me to be kind. I love you so much forever, Matthew. Dr. Roberto, who became Mateo’s grandfather, always told anyone who would listen. That little girl taught us the most important lesson in medicine. Sometimes
The best medicine doesn’t come from a pharmacy, it comes from the heart.
Thus the story of Mateo and Valeria at the San Ángel hospital became a legend. A story of a boy without a family who found his mission in life by helping a girl discover that her dreams had no limits. Years later, when Mateo became the youngest physiotherapist
graduate in Mexico, at the age of 16 he always attributed his success to the mother who taught him to care and to the family who accepted him.
Valeria, now a teenager, is studying to be a pediatrician. She wants to give back to all the help she has received. Caring for other children with special needs. Sofia wrote a book telling the family’s story that became a national bestseller. All proceeds from the book were
donated to the research center headed by Dr.
Wong and Mateo. Mateo remained a pure-hearted boy who believed that love can heal any wound and overcome any limitation. He proved that sometimes the greatest miracles come in the smallest packages and that a generous heart can change the world one step at a time. The end
of history.
Now tell me what you thought about this touching story. Do you think Mateo made the right decision when he agreed to study in China? How did he feel when he saw Sofia change from a mother who abandoned her child? To someone who learned the true meaning of motherly love. Email Address *
Sincerely in the comments. Stories like this remind us that it is never too late to change and that true love always finds a way.
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