Aunt of Venezuelan Boy Pulled from Rubble Shares Hope for Parents’ Rescue
Aunt of Venezuelan boy pulled – The aunt of the Venezuelan boy pulled from rubble, Kleiber Moran, has shared her emotional journey with the BBC, vowing to provide her nephew with ‘mother’s warmth’ until his parents are found. Kleiber, a two-year-old, was rescued after six days trapped beneath the debris of his home in La Guaira state, northern Venezuela, by Jordanian rescuers. His aunt, Andreína Sarmiento, described the moment she learned of his survival, when a friend called from La Guaira to share the news: ‘I fell to the floor and screamed and wept, then rushed to meet him.’
The Rescue and Emotional Reunion
Kleiber’s rescue came early on Tuesday, bringing relief to his family as the earthquake’s toll rose. Venezuela’s interim President Delcy Rodríguez praised the international efforts, calling it a ‘source of hope for our people.’ Andreína, who is not a mother, expressed her determination to care for Kleiber with ‘mother’s warmth until my sister appears.’ She emphasized the deep bond she shared with her older sister, Ana Luz, who was always by Kleiber’s side. ‘Wherever she went, her son went too. Whatever Kleiber wanted, she would please him,’ Andreína recalled.
“I’m praying a lot to God to give me strength because he is only two years old and I am not a mother,” she said, sitting at Kleiber’s bedside in a Caracas hospital. “But I will do everything to give him the love and care a mother would.”
The Search for Parents and Community Support
Kleiber’s parents, Ana Luz and Carlos, remain missing, leaving Andreína to take on a maternal role. She described her sister as ‘always trusting’ and ‘close to Kleiber in every moment,’ which fueled her hope for their rescue. ‘Just as they found my nephew, I have faith they will find my sister and my brother-in-law,’ she added. The search for the missing continues, with teams working tirelessly through the rubble.
“She is my older sister and I always trusted her. Whenever I spoke to her on a video call, the child was by her side,” Andreína shared, highlighting the strength of family ties amid the chaos. “I believe she would have been near Kleiber in the rubble, and I remain optimistic about their survival.”
Medical Progress and Kleiber’s Resilience
Kleiber arrived at the hospital in a ‘state of shock, screaming and screaming,’ but his condition has stabilized by Wednesday. He now interacts with Andreína, giving her ‘little kisses’ and communicating his needs. ‘He lay beside me, surrounded by toys and a Spiderman blanket,’ she said, reflecting on the boy’s resilience. Medical teams have been monitoring his recovery closely, and Andreína remains a constant presence in his life.
Earthquake Aftermath and Ongoing Challenges
The earthquake, which struck Venezuela, has claimed 2,295 lives and left tens of thousands missing. The United Nations is procuring 10,000 body bags to support recovery efforts. Despite the devastation, Andreína’s story has become a symbol of hope for many. ‘When this child grows up, God willing, this will be his story,’ she said, emphasizing Kleiber’s strength in the face of tragedy.
“I can’t imagine what it would be like without his parents, but I will be there for him every step of the way,” Andreína stated. “He is a reminder of the love and unity that can still shine through in times of despair.”
A Personal Promise in a National Crisis
Andreína’s commitment to Kleiber underscores the personal impact of the disaster. As Venezuela grapples with the earthquake’s aftermath, her story highlights the role of extended family in crisis situations. ‘The aunt of the Venezuelan boy pulled from rubble’ has become a figure of inspiration, not only for her nephew but for others who have lost loved ones. Her emotional journey, from despair to determination, resonates with the broader community.
While the search for Kleiber’s parents continues, Andreína remains steadfast in her resolve. ‘I will give him the warmth and comfort a mother would,’ she reiterated, expressing her belief that Kleiber’s parents are still alive and will be found. Her words, though simple, carry profound significance in a time of uncertainty. The aunt of the Venezuelan boy pulled from rubble is not just a guardian but a beacon of hope for a nation in need.
