New Bedford 8th Grader Fighting Kidney Failure

A 14-year-old New Bedford boy is in the fight of his life. Ivaltino Fernandes, an 8th grader at Normandin Middle School, has end-stage renal disease. This means his kidneys are no longer functioning. It is a very serious, life-threatening health issue for Ivaltino, and it is not something that will resolve on its own.

To survive, Ivaltino must travel to Boston three times a week for kidney dialysis. The hope is that the dialysis will sustain him until he can receive a kidney transplant.

Ivaltino is being raised by his single father, Evandro. They arrived from Cape Verde about a year ago, and Evandro works for a construction company on Cape Cod. However, the treatments are extremely time-consuming and costly. Each time Evandro takes a day off to bring his son to Boston, he loses a critical day's pay—money the family needs to cover basic expenses, including bus fare to the hospital. The ordeal has been an emotional, mental, and financial strain on the family.

Transportation Challenges

The bus is the primary mode of transportation to Boston for Ivaltino, but the long rides take a toll on his already fragile health. Occasionally, family members are able to give them a ride, but this help is sporadic.

Ivaltino's Needs

Laurelle Tetreault, the Wraparound Coordinator at Normandin Middle School, highlights the boy's urgent needs: better housing, clothing, food, and transportation assistance. She believes meeting these basic needs will give Ivaltino the best chance of survival.

Make A Donation to Ivaltino

You can make a donation in any amount to the Fernandes family by texting the word "WISHES24" to the number 26989. You can also call Michael and Gazelle at (508) 994-1071.