Marco, a 67-year-old man, and his wife María, 68 year-old, are an elderly couple facing serious challenges due to their financial situation and the conditions of their home. María has type 1 diabetes, a condition that requires constant and careful management to avoid severe complications. Unfortunately, the lack of resources and inadequate living conditions have made it difficult for her to manage her illness effectively.
The couple’s main source of income comes from Marco’s occasional work in mechanics and welding. However, these jobs are infrequent and do not generate enough income to cover their basic needs. As a result, they often struggle to afford proper nutrition, which adversely affects María’s health, as she needs a special diet to keep her diabetes under control.
Marco and María’s home lacks a properly functioning bathroom. Instead of a sewage system, they rely on a septic tank, leading to poor hygiene and potential health issues. They also do not have a shower, forcing them to heat water in pots and carry it outside to bathe. This process is not only uncomfortable and labor-intensive but has also caused joint pain for both Marco and María due to their age, in addition to the lack of privacy it entails.
When we learned about their situation and witnessed the difficulty this family faced without access to a bathroom for years, we recognized the urgent need for action. At Pan de Vida, we sought to mobilize resources, and thanks to generous and compassionate hearts, we were able to undertake the construction of a bathroom for them.
This process, which we began with great hope and joy, was completed in just two weeks. It was the result of many hands working together and individuals dedicating their time and effort to make this a reality.
For us, it has been a blessing to be part of this story and witness how something that might seem simple, has significantly improved this family’s quality of life. Seeing their smiles as they used their new bathroom serves as a reminder of the importance of what we do and motivates us to continue working for those in need.
“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” – Hebrews 13:16
