MIAMI -- A teenager who came to Miami from Haiti to have a 18-pound tumor removed from her face and undergo reconstructive surgery needs another operation.
Marlie Casseus, 18, returned to South Florida from Haiti for her sixth surgery. This week, a team of doctors at Holtz Children's Hospital examined the girl and found a mass blocking her nasal passages. For now, the only way she can breathe is through her mouth.
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"At this point, it's growing back from the central portion of the base of the skull, growing out," said Dr. Jesus Gomez.
Casseus first came to Miami in 2005 when she had a 18-pound tumor covering her face. She was brought to Florida for several intensive surgeries to remove the mass.
Casseus has shown tremendous improvements, but after the January earthquake, she developed an infection.
"The situation (in Haiti) is getting worse. They don't have access to anything. Sometimes they don't even have access to water," Gomez said.
Casseus' recent infection coupled with the growing tumor has made surgery necessary, doctors said.
Casseus' mother, Marlene Casseus, said she is praying for the community's help. The operation will cost more than $150,000.
"I know God is going to touch your heart. Help me, please, my daughter," Marlene Casseus said.
The International Kids Fund's Wonderfund is helping Marlie Casseus and her family, but money is still needed for the surgery. To make a donation to help Marlie Casseus, visit
http://www.wonderfund.org/ or call 305-585-5888.
