teamMarius

Dasianu Marius Vasile is a 9-year-old Romanian boy who was severely burned in a November 2007 fire in his home that killed both of his parents. When he was admitted to the hospital, he had burns (many fourth-degree) covering 75 percent of his body, including his face. Since then, all of his fingers have been amputated because they were so badly damaged. He was treated in what is considered one of

On April 30th Marius was privileged to throw out the first pitch for the San Diego Padres! Marius was chosen by the Burn Institute to do the honors and he didn't disappoint. Check out more pictures in the pictures gallery.

The third phase of the procedure included clipping the attachment of the scalp skin re-attaching that to the scalp. In addition the amazing surgical staff at Shriners transferred his other papa to his left hand so that Marius now has a thumb on both hands. The surgery lasted 12 hours, but as you'll see, even in recovery Marius hasn't lost his sense of humor. The yellow patch on his forward is a temporary measure to help ensure that the scalp skin re-attaches.

The second phase gave shape to Marius' new nose. Here are some great pictures with Lynne, Paul, Ionut, and Ashley. The final 2 pictures were taken a few weeks later just before the 3rd operation.

In November Marius embarked on another great adventure: a new nose. This is an amazing, miraculous, multi-step process. Here are pictures after the first surgery. The skin is taken from the scalp. One end is still attached to the scalp so that it will continue to live while the other end becomes attached at the nose. The blackness is where skin died but it will be removed later. The scalp skin will also be cut and put back in place in a later procedure. Stay tuned!

Marius has loved his karate class. This fall he received his green belt. Check out the event as well as his halloween activities and student award!

It hasn't taken long for Marius to feel at home in his new elementary school. He ran for Student Body Vice President in November and won! Congratulations Marius, you'll be a great VP!

In August Marius added a sweet little chocolate lab to his long list of friends. Named Dasi, she loves Marius and sleeps peacefully in his room with him. He loves playing with and training her.

The Burn Institute of southern California puts on a wonderful camp each year for burn victims called Camp Beyond Scars. Marius got to attend this past August and had a wonderful time. Thanks to all those that volunteer to create such a wonderful experience! Read about it here and watch below.

We got a chance to get away for three weeks this past summer and had some great times with Marius. Enjoy!