Commitment, a force that brings La Maison to life

Dear readers,

Commitment is the soul of La Maison de Terre des hommes Valais. It is what unites us, animates us, and gives meaning to everything we do. Welcoming, accompanying, healing, rebuilding: these are missions that would not be possible without an incredible human chain of solidarity.

Today, with humility and determination, I take the helm of this unique institution, after more than fourteen years dedicated to communication and fundraising. At this pivotal moment, I wish to express my deep gratitude to Philippe Gex. For twenty-four years, his unwavering commitment has made La Maison a refuge, a place where hope is reborn. Thank you, Philippe, for your inspiration and dedication. Enjoy your retirement, dear friend!

La Maison, a collective adventure

But La Maison is above all a collective adventure. It is the strength of committed staff, who show exemplary dedication day after day. It is the trust of families and institutional partners who entrust us with children with challenging backgrounds. It is the hospitals in French-speaking Switzerland and many specialists who offer their expertise and kindness. It is the numerous volunteers whose presence brightens the daily lives of the children. And it is also you, our donors, who, through every gesture, every support, make this mission possible.

In 2024, 172 children received care that they would not have had in their home countries. Tomorrow, more will follow. Because behind every number, there is a story, a transformed destiny.

Humanity in action

Discover in our March 2025 journal the journey of Ténin, who learned to live with a repaired heart, and that of Mouctar, who is in full recovery after facing noma. Ténin now hears her heart beat, not only through the life that was given back to him but also through the regular ticking of the mechanical valve that makes it function. Each beat is a reminder of the passing time, the urgency to act, the importance of continuing our commitment tirelessly. These seconds that tick away, these beats of hope, are the tangible proof of our mission: to give a future to these children, to offer them every moment of life they deserve.

Mouctar, entrusted to La Maison by one of our partners, the Sentinelles foundation, bears on his face the irreversible scars of noma. This disease stole part of his identity. Thanks to the care and support he receives here, he is gradually regaining a face, a smile.

La Maison embodies humanity in action: a place where convalescence becomes rebirth, where every child regains not only their health but also their dignity. Dr. André-Lévigne, head of the plastic surgery clinic at HUG, who operated on Mouctar, highlights in this March edition an undeniable reality: acting, sharing knowledge, and staying committed are essential duties.

Commitment, an invisible thread

Without the support of La Maison, the lives of Ténin and Mouctar would have taken a very different direction, marked by insurmountable obstacles. Every story like theirs reminds us that life is a fragile balance, where suffering and hope coexist, and that our commitment is the invisible thread that allows these children to reconnect with a future they thought lost. In this fight against the injustice of fate, every moment is precious, every gesture counts.

Together, let us continue to keep the heart of La Maison beating. Because every child saved, every smile regained is proof that our commitment makes all the difference.

Happy reading,

Grégory Rausis
Director