Ten-year-old Andrés Mieles, a survivor of the devastating earthquakes in Venezuela, received a personal video message and an invitation to a game from soccer superstar Cristiano Ronaldo. Mieles, who lost his parents and older brother in the disaster and had his right leg amputated, had expressed a simple wish for a Cristiano Ronaldo sticker to complete his Panini World Cup album.
Ronaldo, after learning of Mieles' story, sent the boy a heartfelt video from Toronto, where he was celebrating his national team's advancement in the World Cup. "I know you're a huge fan," Ronaldo said in the message. "Once you're feeling better, I'd like to invite you to watch one of my matches and just enjoy the game. Sound good?"
The soccer star added, "I'd love to meet you. All the best, my friend."
Mieles was rescued on June 24, shortly after the earthquakes destroyed his home in La Guaira. While hospitalized, his wish for a sticker was recorded and shared, touching many.
Through a Real Madrid official, who relayed the message to Venezuelan musician Armando Poyo, Ronaldo's response was facilitated. Poyo and chef José Andrés visited Mieles in the hospital on Friday to present the video message and other gifts, including a signed jersey from Ronaldo, which was shipped to the boy. Mieles was recovering in the hospital following his leg amputation.