Romanian Orthodox Diocese Raises €100,000 for Critically Ill Children

Bishop Lucian and Adriana. Source: Episcopia Caransebeșului

BUCHAREST — Through the compassion and generosity of the Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Caransebeș, three children battling serious illnesses are now receiving life-saving medical care abroad. Under the guidance of Bishop Lucian (Mic), the Diocese raised approximately €100,000—or about $115,000—demonstrating its commitment to both spiritual and humanitarian missions.

Two children in urgent need of surgeries in the United States each received €33,000, while 12-year-old Adriana Perescu, diagnosed with stage IV neuroblastoma, was granted €60,000 towards her treatment in Spain. Adriana’s condition, identified in 2023, has already required surgery in Hungary and a stem cell transplant. However, full recovery depends on further treatment at a specialized hospital in Barcelona, with costs nearing €975,000 ($1.12 million).

Moved by Adriana’s plight, the Church and local community in Caraș-Severin County rallied to collect donations during Sunday liturgies and feast days. On Wednesday, Bishop Lucian welcomed Adriana to the diocesan center in Caransebeș, prayed for her healing, and personally handed her the collected funds.

“This action demonstrates the vocation of mutual aid of the Caransebeș Diocese, which, alongside its spiritual mission, concretely supports people in suffering,” said Archimandrite Casian Rușeț, diocesan cultural advisor.

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