Katriel’s mother remains courageous in the face of her son’s illness, saying she would not turn back the clock to change - anything even if she could, despite the suffering he has gone through.

The young boy stole the hearts of many during last year’s l-Istrina, where he shared his story. He suffers from a form of Lupus so rare there are only 12 known cases worldwide.

He had a stroke when he was only three, and lost his teeth and hair. But he is undaunted and wants to become a hairdresser.

His wish was to go on holiday, rather than what has become normal for him: to travel to hospitals or to get medical care. That wish came true earlier this year, when a sponsor heard an interview on l-Istrina and helped him out.

Katriel’s story touched hundreds, and an interview aired during the fund-raising marathon garnered over 200,000 views.

You can help people like Katriel and his family by donating to l-Istrina on Boxing Day. The fund-raising marathon will be aired from noon until midnight.

Phone numbers:

51902030 - €50

51802012 - €25

50619201 - €11.65

The pledge line number is 2126 2626.