My Story

Chixocol, where your child lives, is a very small village nestled in a mountain valley in the state of Quiche, Guatemala. Life in this state is very difficult and somewhat isolated from the outside world. Most families live in one-room adobe houses with dirt floors and a small attached kitchen. The extremely poor live in houses made of corn stalks. In the past few years electricity and water have become available to most people in the area - however, indoor plumbing is very rare. Most of the families are farmers or shepherds and live off the fruits of their labors. Public education is available for those who can afford it and consider it of value.  Life in Quiche is always a challenge. 

It is a real pleasure to write to you this letter. My name is Deisy Yaneth Petronila Chivalan Alvarado. I was born on April 22, 2022. I am 4 years old. I attend preschool. I enjoy spending time playing dolls at home. My favorite animal is the cow, and I love the color pink. I like to eat black beans. Thankfully, my family is in good health. I live with my mother, my siblings and stepfather. My biological father does not live with us. He works as a mason helper. He sends us a monthly support and keeps in touch with us. His name is Hector Raul Chivalan Quinilla. My mother remarried Miguel Hernandez two years ago. He is a good person and supports our family working as a blacksmith. My mother is Mildred Selena Alvarado Urizar. My mother stays at home doing the chores, and she earns extra money selling hens. I would like to ask for your prayers because my mother suffers from gastritis and takes medicine. I have one brother and one sister. My family still attends a church.

We live in our own house. There are three rooms and a separate kitchen. These are made of block, tin sheet roof and concrete floor. It has running water and electricity. Our greatest needs are groceries, clothes and shoes. I walk about 5 minutes to get to the feeding program. I am praying for God to bless you and your family.

With much love,

Deisy Yaneth Petronila Chivalan Alvarado

Translated by: Antigua Secretary-Lucia Gravez