And sometimes with enormous help from many complete strangers, as Abayneh Adefris could tell you.

Abayneh arrived in October weighing only 60 pounds and carrying little more than the clothing he wore.  He's returning home 20 pounds heavier, loaded with 142 pounds of luggage (including clothing for his brothers), an iPod, a bike, and most important, a prosthetic arm and the skills to use it.  Those skills will make it possible for him to have an independent life — even at home in Ethiopia, say those who have cared for him during his stay.

Abayneh was brought to the U.S. by the regional chapter of Healing the Children, which is headquartered in Mukilteo.  The nonprofit matches children needing medical care with agencies, doctors and hospitals willing to donate it.

(Emphasis added.)

Abayneh was referred to Healing the Children by another charity with a similar name, Blessing the Children.  While he was here getting his new arm, he was cared for by a foster mother, Traci Grant.  All the people who helped him deserve his thanks; all deserve our respect and, perhaps, our support.

Cross posted at Jim Miller on Politics.