Uday Khambadkone Photography

Images © Uday Khambadkone

	Mateo
	Mateo Solis, 7 has Cerebral Palsy since birth and comes to the Fundacion Integrar a non government organization for his therapies. Mateo is a quiet kid and barely interacts at the foundation. But at home, he is a different person. Often smiling, laughing and often playing with his favorite toy “Tigger”. In fact he likes the Tigger so much that he has two of them, the second one is a 3 foot tall which he sleeps with. His little sister Catalina is often next to him, trying to entertain and play with him. Mother Liliana and father Fabricio make every effort to make Mateo’s life as easy as possible with utmost care and dignity. Liliana recalls, because of the countless hours of therapies at the foundation, Mateo can stand and walk by himself.

Fabricio's mother has called to talk to her grandson. Though Mateo can barely speak three words, he loves to listen to his favorite grandmothers voice.

Mateo cries as he can't find his "Tigger", his favorite toy, while his younger sister Catalina is busy doing her homework. When Mateo is at home, he always has to have his Tigger by his side.

Fabricio Solis readies his son Mateo in the morning as they leave to go Fundacion Integrar, a school for mentally challenged kids.

Mateo gives a hard time with his breakfast before leaving for school.

Liliana helps Catalina with her homework as she juggles life with two kids.

Ruth who is a Physical therapist at the foundation, helps Mateo with balance.

Mateo is fast asleep after an hour of massage therapy at Fundacion Integrar, a school for mentally challenged kids.

Mateo is having fun with his favorite toy "Tigger" as mother, Liliana prepares dinner for him.

Mateo having a moment with his mom Liliana, in the front yard of their house.