Ecuador: Brutal attack leaves bullied child in grave condition

Ecuador (MNN) — Due to security concerns and the sensitive nature of this story, at Compassion International’s request, we’ve shared Brandy Campbell’s account of the following in its entirety:
I’ve started this blog post a half dozen times, but I’ll be honest with you. I don’t know how to write it. A few days ago I was told a story so horrific that I still am struggling to process it. But as I sit here with my hands literally shaking, I know that this is a story you need to know.

Because Steven needs your help.

It started as a typical Sunday for Steven in his hometown of Esmeraldas, Ecuador. He had gone to church that morning, probably played with his friends, heard a Bible story. But at 1:00 that afternoon, Steven was attacked by a group of teenage boys near his home.

I can’t tell you why this happened. But what I do know is that Steven was captured, bound, covered in gasoline and set on fire.

That’s the sentence that makes my hands shake.

Steven ran to a nearby river and was able to put out the fire. But the boy’s nightmare was just beginning. He was taken from hospital to hospital, but none were equipped to deal with the severity of his burns, which covered more than 65 percent of his body.

In those critical first days, Steven suffered. His parents suffered as they begged for help. The Compassion staff suffered as they tried to find resources.

And that brings us to today. To you.

Currently, Steven is in critical condition. Many of his organs are failing, and he is on dialysis. He is experiencing sepsis and septic shock.

A group has brought Steven to the United States to a hospital with a burn unit that can provide state-of-the-art care. It is estimated that he will need at least seven years of care, including skin grafts, surgeries and dialysis.
Will you help?
By giving a donation to our Medical Assistance Fund, you will help Steven and other children like him with critical medical needs. As of now, Steven’s medical bills are already $90,000 and increase daily. His family could not make that much money in a lifetime.

Donate for Steven today! ›››

His older sister does have a message for you.

“Pray for Steven,” she says, “so the function of his organs can come back to normal. We are thankful to God and have faith in Him because He is taking care of my brother. Sometimes doctors come and say ‘Steven has only a few hours of life.’ But my brother is still alive. God is with us.”

Steven is still alive.

God is with him.
Will you be with him too?
Steven needs a miracle. It’s time to help.
Will you also pray for Steven?

Pray for Steven, his friends and his family as they deal with this dire situation.
Pray for wisdom for the medical personnel as they treat Steven.
Pray for those who caused Steven’s injuries.

We will keep you updated as Steven’s condition progresses here on the blog as he receives the care he needs. In the meantime, join us by praying, donating on behalf of Steven, or starting your own fundraiser. Click here for more information.