A new life for Paulo

Let's help Paulo achieve a fresh start and contribute to him being able to be in the institution he needs!

Hello,

We are Filipa and Inês, aged 32 and 29, sisters who grew up in the Oeiras area, just like our cousin Paulo, whom you've heard about today.

Paulo, 54, has been grappling with schizophrenia and Intellectual and Developmental Difficulty (IDD) for decades. The lack of proper support throughout his life hindered his ability to develop the necessary skills to integrate and adapt to social situations. He even stopped schooling after the 5th year.

Paulo's life has been entwined with his parents, who, constrained by the stigma surrounding mental health, struggled to address his specific needs.

Following his father's passing in July, Paulo's 95-year-old mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's and can no longer care for herself or Paulo. Our family has stepped in, providing daily meals, cleaning, and handling various bureaucratic matters.

We secured a spot for Paulo at a private institution with a comprehensive rehabilitation program. He joined in early August alongside his mother. Despite a substantial discount through a partnership with a Private Social Solidarity Institution, the monthly costs are significant. Our aunt and uncle couldn't save enough to secure Paulo's dignified future and his continued presence at the institution, which has already had a positive impact (Paulo's spontaneous communication, forming new relationships, and engaging in activities independently, surprising given his historically inhibited and passive demeanor).

Now, we seek your help to ensure Paulo's ongoing participation at the institution. It requires several months to navigate the Heirs Qualification process, contingent upon the completion of our aunt's Supported Decision-Making process as per Portuguese Law nº 49/2018 of August 14.

Thank you for reading this narrative and considering support for our cousin. If you choose to assist, please know our heartfelt gratitude.

Filipa and Inês

Nós e a nossa mãe, que tem sido o apoio dos meus tios nos últimos anos

About the author

We are Filipa and Inês, two sisters committed to providing the support our cousin Paulo deserves.

Paulo needs resources to be in an institution where he can develop skills and experience enriching moments, which his mental condition has deprived him of until now. We know he's in an institution that can offer him this, within a project led by a highly professional and compassionate team.

Your donation will make all the difference in this journey of transformation and inclusion.

Budget and due dates

We will try to raise approximately 2 months of tuition (€1050), in addition to health expenses.

Images