Duenas, 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 Duenas is quiet and sometimes difficult. 

Hello! Before starting, I want to say thank you so much for reading my information. My name is Kilian Eliu Gomez Sanail, and I was born on September 23, 2019. I am 5 years old and I had left-sided paralysis about six months ago. Thankfully, I am much better now. My parents are taking me to therapy because I was not able to walk or talk well due to the paralysis. They pay Q90=$11.70 for each therapy session. I still do not attend school because of my age. My favorite pastimes are painting my coloring books, jumping, and playing ball. I love having fried chicken for my meals. My favorite color is blue. Dinosaurs were the best animals on Earth! I am a big fan of them. I am glad because my whole family is doing well. My father’s name is Esvin Estuardo Gomez Ordonez. He makes a living as a day laborer on a farm here in Duenas town. On the other hand, my mom does a great job as a housewife and takes care of my brother and me. I only have one brother. I am the youngest child in my family. Her name is Karen Indalecia Sanail Jerez.  

We are members of a Christian Church called Aposento Alto. We are grateful to the farm owners because they allow us to live on a piece of their farm. The house is made of tin sheets with dirt and concrete floors. It has two rooms and a separate kitchen. We share the house with two other families and my grandfather. My family and I only use one room. Fortunately, we have electricity and running water. The three families combine their money to pay for the services at the end of each month. We have one dog at home as a pet. I ask you to pray for provision for my family. Our priorities are food and school supplies for my oldest brother. We live about 15 minutes from the feeding program. My brother and I usually get there on foot. We sometimes ride a bike to get there fast. To end this letter, I want you to know that my mom and I were glad to share all this information with LW just for you. I say goodbye to you now, but I hope to hear from you soon.  

Huge hugs,  

Kilian Eliu Gomez Sanail 

Translated by: Hillary Popol, AAC Secretary / Antigua Guatemala