Quest students work to help 7-year-old girl with scoliosis

Students at IDEA Quest Early College Preparatory and Academy hope to give a bright future to a little girl named Sol.

Sol is a 7-year-old girl from Ecuador who was diagnosed with scoliosis about four years ago. Doctors initially said she would never be able to stand up. But she proved them wrong after her first surgery. She can sit up and take a few steps, according to information the school received from organizations helping the child.

Family members of a teacher at IDEA, Michele Peckinpaugh, have hosted the child when she has traveled to the United States for surgery and treatment, said Ann Vega, the school's librarian and the adviser of the schools' student council.

Peckinpaugh learned earlier this year that Sol would need another surgery at the Shriner's Hospital in Philadelphia and that her family would have to pay for their own airfare, Vega said.

So, the student council decided to raise money to help Sol and her family, Vega said. It began its Cents for Sol campaign last week and hopes to raise at least $1,000 by Nov. 14.

Students said they feel a connection with Sol, especially since many are the same age as she is.

"My little sister is around that age. I'm thinking what if my sister was like that," said Angelika Quintanilla, a 14-year-old ninth-grade student. "It made me want to help more."

Council members said they were impressed by how much people donated the first day of the campaign drive. They did not know how much money they received, but a 5-gallon water bottle was almost half full with dollar bills and change. Students said there were other containers filled that day as well.

"One fourth-grader gave me a check for $20," said Sophie Morales, a 15-year-old sophomore.

Students said they have been collecting money in the hallways and outside where parents drop off their children. They've made posters advertising the drive and have tied yellow ribbons in her honor.

"She's a part of us now," said Sarah Guerra, a 13-year-old eighth grade student.

To donate or for more information, call Ann Vega at (956) 287-1003.

Jennifer L. Berghom covers education and general assignments for The Monitor. She can be reached at (956) 683-4462.