The Struggles of a Desperate Father

My name is István, I’m 51 years old. I used to work as a paint shop assistant and lived a modest, peaceful life. One day, I was contacted by a hospital about a newborn boy whose mother gave birth and then ran away. Later, she officially gave him up. When I visited him, I gently touched his little face—he squeezed my finger, as if we had always belonged together. He was 1.5 months old. Now he is 14 months old, and I have been raising him ever since with minimal state support. My workplace allowed me to stay home with him until he turned one.

Then my older son, who is 16, had an accident and broke his collarbone. I stayed home to take care of him again. Although I received only 7 days of caregiving leave, I had to take him to the hospital frequently. My employer wasn’t happy and terminated my contract. I was left without any income, and my savings ran out.

Soon after, a pipe burst in the bathroom and flooded the place. I did what I could, but it needs complete renovation. On top of that, due to the constant stress, I developed high blood pressure and early-stage diabetes. I now have to take six different kinds of medications twice a day, which I must pay for myself.

Although I’ve never asked for help before, I’ve now fallen into deep debt. If I can’t solve these problems, I’m afraid they’ll take the little boy away from me—someone I love like my own child.

I’m actively looking for work, but at my age it’s very hard. Most places prefer younger applicants.

If you have the means and goodwill, even the smallest donation could make a huge difference in our lives.

Our goal is to raise $15,000 to renovate the bathroom, pay off debts, cover medical and living expenses, and keep our family together.

Please share our story to help us reach more people.

Thank you to everyone who is willing and able to help.

M

ay God bless you.