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Jed Boal ReportingA Salt Lake company is determined to use its expertise to help a man from South America walk again. But, when the man arrived in Utah, he and his friends discovered a problem that threatens to damage his dream.
Victor Penafiel of Ecuador lost both legs and an arm when he fell under a train when he was eleven. But, never let his disability slow him down.
Victor Penafiel: "I always go by the motto, I have to accept what happens."
A friend taught him to swim. He got so good, he swam in this four kilometer river race. He placed third in his age group and 15th overall, and he was the only disabled swimmer.
Ann and Clyne Long of American Fork saw his story while on an LDS Church mission in Ecuador. Working in an employment office, Anne used the video of Penafiel to inspire others.
Ann Long/Friend: "The thing that motivated me is that Victor is so giving and never dwells on his own problems."
Before they left, the Longs met Penafiel. When they came home, they made plans to help the Ecuadorian walk again.
Marcelo Espinel coordinated the effort here. Fit Well will donate its services to attach the limbs. Another company donated prosthetics.
But, when Penafiel arrived in Salt Lake two weeks ago, they discovered a miscommunication. Only the feet had been donated.. no legs or knees or other critical components.
Marcelo Espinel/Friend: "There is a lot of pressure. We were hoping as soon as he came they could start this. But things didn't work out."
So, they still need help.
Dave Jones/ Fit Well: "We'll make it happen. If we can rally people, it will happen."
Penafiel and his wife must leave in a month, but their friends are determined he will walk.
Victor Penafiel: "I cannot express with words the joy that I would have."
America First Credit Union has set up the Victor Penafiel Prosthetic Fund.
You can send in checks to America First Credit Union at P.O. Box 9199 Ogden, Utah 84409 or drop off a donation at any America First branch location.
Member at America First can use Web Access to transfer money into Victor's account.
