Argentinian couple moves to US to allow their toddler to join gene therapy trial

The Lovatos relocated from Guatemala to Ohio for their son, who has the rare genetic disorder Canavan disease

The birth of their first child three and a half years ago completed Natalia and Juan Lovato’s lives. Both from Argentina, Juan was a professional soccer player in Guatemala, where Natalia ran a successful Argentinian restaurant.

Soon, however, they noticed their son Ciro couldn’t hold up his head. Then, they were alarmed that he wasn’t making eye contact.