Our Algarve community is home to many inspiring individuals, and Constança is certainly one of them. This bright, loving, and friendly seven-year-old girl from Lagos faces daily challenges due to an extremely rare genetic condition called KAT6A syndrome. Affecting only around 500 known cases worldwide, this condition leads to severe speech and general developmental delays, vision problems, severe gastrointestinal issues, cardiac anomalies and convulsions. Yet, despite these significant hurdles, Constança continues to inspire everyone around her with her remarkable strength and ever-present smile.
Many of you may recall that our wonderful readers, alongside the Tomorrow Algarve Charity Trust (TACT), rallied together to support Constança at the Viva Portugal Summer Party in 2023, which helped raise vital funds for Constança and the Bombeiros. At that time, Constança was five years old, and the funds contributed significantly to her specialist treatments and therapies, which are not covered by the Portuguese health system.
While that support was invaluable, the long-term costs associated with Constança’s care remain substantial. Her mother Anadá Filipitsch and campaign organiser Paulo Pacheco have now launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for an adapted vehicle.
Constança’s daily life involves frequent trips to school and therapy clinics, requiring the transportation of her wheelchair and an adapted walker several times a week. Regrettably, her family’s current vehicle is no longer suitable or accessible for her needs. To ensure her safety, independence and overall quality of life, an adapted vehicle with wheelchair accessibility is not a luxury but a crucial necessity.
These specially modified vehicles come with a substantial price tag, typically ranging between €30.000 and €50.000, depending on the specific modifications required, such as ramps, lifts or lowered floors. Unfortunately, these essential costs are not covered by insurance.
Anadá is now appealing to the generous spirit of our readers once again. Any donation, no matter how small, will make a profound difference in Constança’s life, granting her the mobility and safety she so richly deserves. Even if you are unable to contribute financially, simply sharing her story and the campaign can help reach more people willing to offer support.
You can follow Constança’s inspiring journey and find more details on how to help by following her on Instagram.
Let’s come together to give Constança the gift of accessible mobility.
Instagram: @morningsmilewithconstanca
