While living in a student house near his horticultural school, he accidentally touched a live electrical wire. The high-voltage shock left him with devastating third-degree burns, and despite every effort to save his arm, it had to be amputated at the shoulder.
The accident could have ended his aspirations, but Enrique’s determination has carried him forward. Passionate about plants, he is studying horticulture and hopes to eventually become an agricultural engineer. With the help of his care team at Shriners Children’s Texas, Enrique is regaining the skills and confidence he needs to return to school and one day build his career in agriculture.
When Enrique arrived at Shriners Children’s, his care team focused not only on healing his injuries, but also on preparing him for the future. His therapy sessions now include exercises and movements that connect directly to his vocational goals. For example, Enrique is planting flowers outside the hospital as part of his rehabilitation. Real-world experiences give him the chance to practice with his new prosthetic arm and gain confidence in the very tasks he hopes to turn into a career. He also works closely with the hospital’s schoolteacher, Flor Mota, to stay on track with his lesson plans. He is currently taking online courses to earn the certifications he will need when he returns to school in Guatemala.
Emma Ogunda, FNP, a nurse practitioner at Shriners Children’s Texas, said, “Enrique sustained life-threatening burns and lost his arm, but his outlook remains positive and adventurous. He doesn’t let anything hold him back.”
His outlook remains positive and adventurous. He doesn’t let anything hold him back.
A major part of his recovery is prosthetic care, which he receives from the in-house Pediatric Orthotic and Prosthetic Services (POPS) department. Lauren Hager, CPO, LPO, his prosthetist, explained, “He is incredibly motivated and determined. We’re making him two devices: one cosmetic for special occasions and one work prosthesis with a functional hook so he can continue gardening.”
Enrique’s determination and hard work, combined with specialized therapy and technology at Shriners Children’s, are helping him prepare for a productive future. His care team is not only restoring his independence but also equipping him to thrive in his chosen career. With the right support, patients like Enrique can keep moving toward their dreams.
Enrique plants flowers outside the hospital.
Enrique is fitted with a new functional prosthetic arm in POPS.
Enrique digs a hole with the assistance of his new prosthetic arm.
Enrique practices using his prosthetic arm and hook during a session in POPS.
Enrique discusses the planting project with physical therapist Chris Whitehead.
