Derek Lytle KSNW
The van that was stolen from a Liberal family who was in Kansas City for their child’s medical treatment has been found.
Pedro Arellano’s son, Pedro Arellano Jr., has been battling heart defects and respiratory issues caused by DiGeorge Syndrome since he was born.
The van was found by the police Friday morning with extensive damage, and the medical supplies Pedro Jr. needs to survive are nowhere to be found.
Pedro said his family travels six hours from Liberal to Kansas City every few weeks for his son’s medical needs. He said his son was a fighter.
“I’m at a loss for words to really express what my son has been through,” said Pedro.
He said Pedro Jr. needed the medical supplies that were stolen from their car. He said the theft was the reason his son ended up in the emergency room later that day.
“When it hits him, he has a hard time breathing, and so he needs breathing treatment to open up his airways to his lungs, and that equipment was in the van when it got stolen,” said Arellano.
Shocked by the damage left behind, their only form of transport.
“They obviously took a joyride; there was some damage done to the vehicle, windshield, front end, and also the back window was busted out; it looks like they hit a pole or something,” said Pedro.
Unsure what insurance will cover, they will be renting a car to make Pedro Jr.’s next appointment in Wichita. Pedro said Ascension Via Christi donated oxygen tanks for them to make it back home, and Children’s Mercy Hospital supplied them with car seats.
Overcome with emotion, Pedro said the outpouring of support from the Kansas City community has meant a lot.
When things like this happen, the community comes together and really pulls through; God bless you all, man,” Pedro said.
Pedro said they will be able to make it in time for Pedro Jr.’s cardiology appointment in Wichita on Tuesday, thanks to the support they have received.
A GoFundMe has been set up for the family. Pedro said he’s grateful for the nearly $20,000 that has been donated since the theft.
