My Story

Dueñas, where your child lives, is a small farming village located at the foot of one of Guatemala's active volcanoes, Fuego (Fire). The fertile ground around the village allows for the cultivation of roses and coffee, two of Guatemala's largest exports. Most of the families in this area live in one or two room wooden or adobe houses with tin roofs. Electricity is available to those who can afford it. Running water is available - however, most homes do not have indoor plumbing. Public education is available for those who can afford it and consider education of value. Life in Dueñas is quiet and sometimes difficult.

Hello! My name is Carlos Emanuel Salazar Ojer. I was born on March 7, 2015, and I am already 8 years old. This year I am repeating 1^st grade at school. I love dogs, in fact, we have three dogs as pets, and my favorite color is blue. I love playing ball and with my kitty. The food I love is chicken with potatoes. I have two brothers and one sister. My father and siblings are in good health. I frequently suffer from constipation; my mother took me to the health center and fortunately, I will receive medical care in the LW clinic. I want you to pray for my mother´s health because she was diagnosed in the hospital with kidney stones and gallstones. She had some medical exams and is waiting for a surgery to remove them. We trust in God that she will recover her health soon.

My father´s name is Jose Ricardo Salazar Lopez. He drives a truck and delivers construction materials in Dueñas village; he supplies the family´s needs. My mother is Wendi Marisol Ojer Perez. She used to work in a plant nursery to contribute to the income, but she stopped for a while because of her health issues. I have one older brother who lives with my great grandma in Quiche town; my mother used to send some money every two weeks. We rent the house in which we live; the monthly payment is Q300.00 = $40.00. There is one room and a separate kitchen; those are made entirely of tin sheets and a dirt floor. We have electricity and running water services; my father pays for them. As a family, our most basic needs are food, clothing, footwear and tin sheets to improve our house. We attend Catholic Church in our village. I live 3 minutes away from the feeding program. My mother Wendy Ojer provided my personal information to the Living Water staff for my registration. I say goodbye to you for now. Many and rich blessings on you!

Bunch of hugs,

Carlos Emanuel Salazar Ojer

Translated by: Violeta Hernandez / A-A-C Secretary-Antigua Guatemala