What do a specialist retailer and a microentrepreneur have in common? Unconditional love for children born with rare diseases, love, partnership and caring. Whether they are biological fathers or the ones in charge of parenting, these men show that the father is the one who educates, teaches, learns together and loves unconditionally (see video above).
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The first story begins in the community of Sapucaia in Olinda. A stepfather who arrived in a boy’s life even before he was born. Specialist retailer Audecy Andrade met Claudlene Reis when she was pregnant with Kauan.
Audecy was by her side when the diagnosis came that Kauan would be born with microcephaly. And learn from every boy’s victory.
After the birth, the biological father registered the boy, but it is the stepfather who helps in raising the boy. “He doesn’t speak, but he feels everything. If he only hears my voice, he starts screaming,” said the warehouse clerk.
1 of 4 Audecy with his wife Claudilene and their children — Photo: Reproduction/TV Globo
Audecy with his wife Claudilene and their children — Photo: Reproduction/TV Globo
In search of a better life for the whole family, Audecy works part time, interns part time, and studies at night. A routine that adds to Kauan’s trips to doctors and therapies, moments he fills with all affection.
“He is my feet, my hands. He is what is present in my life. I don’t know what I would do in my life without him. He never misses an appointment with Kauan,” Claudinene said.
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When they married, Claudilene already had Ana Beatriz, who also took on the creation of Audecy. Now, after seven years of relationship, the two are expecting a baby.
“He’s a big dad who does everything he can. He’s not the stepfather, he’s the father. Because being a father doesn’t have to be blood,” said the woman.
Audecy’s story helps to understand the popular saying “Father is the one who creates”. Whether they are stepfathers or biological fathers, they know that the mission is not easy and lifelong.
2 out of 4 parents of children with rare diseases talk about love for their children and a relationship of complicity — Photo: Reproduction/TV Globo
Parents of children with rare diseases talk about love for their children and a relationship of complicity — Photo: Reproduction/TV Globo
Having the chance to see your child grow, give love, set an example and be together for everything is the best gift. That’s the definition of microentrepreneur Clênio Tenório, father of 6yearold Maria Luiza.
The girl was born with osteogenesis imperfecta, a condition known as brittle bones, and has been followed by the AACD since she was 8 months old. Clênio is always by his daughter’s side and it’s not hard to see the connection between the two.
“She came with a special magic, something that moves. When I’m with her, it’s an incredible way to respond with all of the dynamics that we have on a daily basis, both in play and in therapy. I didn’t know what it was like to be a father until then. When she arrived, I understood what it was from the moment I put my arms around her,” explained Clênio.
3 of 4 Clênio and his daughter Maria Luiza show solidarity and set an example of mutual support — Photo: Reproduction/TV Globo
Clênio and his daughter Maria Luiza show solidarity and set an example of mutual support — Photo: Reproduction/TV Globo
She has broken bones 21 times and has had three surgeries. Already at the age of 6 she understands what she is going through and gives her father the strength to face the challenges.
“As much as the day is the worst of my life, she transforms with her smile. Because everything she shows is love, ”explained the microentrepreneur.
With diagnoses like that of Maria Luiza or other children, a person as special as the father can help with the treatment.
“The goal of rehabilitation is to think a lot about this partnership bond. We work taking into account what we can offer and this continuity at home favors development,” explained psychologist Inabelle Oliveira.
4 of 4 Maria Luiza with her father Clênio Tenório — Photo: Reproduction/TV Globo
Maria Luiza with her father Clênio Tenório — Photo: Reproduction/TV Globo
Maria Luiza had a brother, Luiz, six months ago. Liliane and Clênio have been together for eight years. While she works at home and takes care of the youngest ones, it is the father who takes the daughter to therapy. “I have a wonderful father, I like him very much,” the girl explained.
“God empowered me, sent Maria Luiza and literally changed my life. […] I feel like a super dad by your side. I love you, you are the love of my life,” the emotional father said to the elder.