The story of Matéo Lepetit had moved France, in 2015, when he sought to finance an experimental treatment in the United States to cure his leukemia. A surge of solidarity had enabled the teenager to raise more than the 172,000 euros needed. Despite the onset of remission, the disease had taken him down at the age of 17. “His last wish was that we help other sick children by creating a vacation home where they could recharge their batteries,” explains Évelyne, Matéo's mother. Promise kept, because this place of welcome has become reality. It will open its doors on May 31, the day Matéo should have celebrated his 22 years.
The house is nestled in the heart of the green massif of the Chartreuse, surrounded by still snow-capped peaks.
Formerly the cure of Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse, this building of 350 m2 from the 19th century was bought by the association Le Petit Matéo thanks to the surplus donations it had received.
Three apartments and large common rooms
Completely renovated, the interior has been stripped of its monastic austerity.
When you pass the entrance, the rooms are bright.
A slide descends from the floor, distorting mirrors amuse the eye and it is a rainbow of bright colors that brighten up the visitor.
“The wheelchair lift is blue, like OM, Mateo's favorite club.
There are three apartments with a view of the Chartreuse, but also large common rooms for playing and cooking.
I would like this to promote sharing between residents.
If they forget the disease, it's a victory, ”hopes Evelyne.
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Holidays to treat sick young people
Ethan, 12, a cancer survivor, will cut the ribbon at the inauguration. “He had befriended Matéo at the hospital. I wanted him to come first, ”says the mother. Sick children and their relatives will be accommodated free of charge after making a reservation on the lepetitmateo.org website. Ultimately, the operating cost could be covered by intermittent “solidarity rental” of one of the apartments. The project is in any case supported by the village, rejoices Evelyne. “The baker has, for example, promised that he will offer the pastries for the first breakfast of the first family! "