CAMO Neurosurgery and Maxillofacial Team Save a Life

José Wilfredo Pineda, 38, a father of two and hardworking merchant, faced a rare, life-changing challenge: a maxillary mixoma, a benign but aggressive tumor growing in his jawbone.

In February 2025, José’s family noticed that his eye was starting to shift. Concerned, they first consulted an ophthalmologist. A CT scan revealed a tumor, and José underwent multiple tests and cancer treatments over four months—but nothing worked.

Even after visiting public and private hospitals, doctors warned that surgery was too risky and potentially life-threatening. They said the only option was to wait as the tumor grew, risking his face and brain.

Finding Hope Through CAMO

Refusing to give up, José sought one last opinion—and that led him to CAMO.

On December 3, 2025, Dr. Javier Pérez, a maxillofacial surgeon and CAMO volunteer, coordinated with the neurosurgery team led by Dr. Roberto Álvarez at Hospital de Occidente. Using a state-of-the-art surgical neuronavigator donated by CAMO, the team reduced the risks of this complex surgery and decided to operate.

Life-Saving Surgery

On January 14, 2026, José underwent successful surgery. His wife shared:

“We were turned away everywhere, and having him operated on was nothing short of a miracle in our lives.”

Dr. Pérez said:

“My greatest motivation was knowing this is a young father, a fighter. With a strong team and God’s help, everything worked out.”

A Remarkable Recovery

Only 55 days later, José reunited with the doctors who operated on him, showing rapid and remarkable recovery. He continues his rehabilitation, has returned to work after a year, and will receive further treatment to restore his smile fully.

How CAMO’s Collaborative Model Transforms Lives in Honduras

José’s story shows how CAMO’s unique model of care—coordinating support from the U.S. with the expertise of local professionals in Honduras—makes it possible to treat even the most complex cases.

With advanced surgical equipment, skilled professionals, and compassionate care, life-saving procedures become a reality for patients who might otherwise have no options.

Learn more or support CAMO’s life-changing work at camo.org