From Guatemala to Spain: Bryan’s Ongoing Health Battle

Clinicians at Westmont Bethel Hospital review Bryan’s case with Dr. Garcia-Boyano via telehealth.

At just seven years old, Bryan arrived at Westmont Bethel Hospital in Guatemala in severe pain, suffering from his first episode of pancreatitis. Bryan’s painful journey was only beginning.

Over the next few years, Bryan was hospitalized again and again. By the age of eleven, he had endured seven episodes of pancreatitis. Each time, he faced days of abdominal pain, vomiting, and tests that revealed swelling and inflammation in his pancreas. Despite numerous scans and lab work, including tests for genetic and immune-related conditions, no definitive cause could be found.

Treatments included IV fluids, pain management, and repeated monitoring. In some cases, his pancreas appeared enlarged or irregular; other times, the tests were normal. In late 2024, doctors performed a complex endoscopic procedure. A second procedure in early 2025 confirmed that his bile ducts were normal, but the struggle to understand and manage his condition remained.

Following this complex and ongoing medical journey, the team at Westmont Bethel Hospital requested to consult with Dr. García-Boyano, a pediatrician from Spain through World Telehealth Initiative. During the consultation, he and the local team reviewed Bryan’s history, lab results, imaging studies, and clinical course. Dr. Garcia-Boyano discussed his treatment plan and guided strategies to detect and prevent complications to minimize long-term effects. He shared resources and brought valuable support and knowledge to the team caring for Bryan, reinforcing their efforts. His guidance helped strengthen the local team’s approach at a critical time.

Now 11 years old, Bryan continues to be closely monitored. His story is a powerful reminder of how international collaboration bring life-changing expertise to children facing debilitating health challenges around the world. Through global collaboration and dedicated local providers, Bryan has a strong team behind, working together to give him the best chance at a healthier future.