Sonia Aguilar, a 52-year-old Ecuadorian woman, lived for seventeen years under the physical and emotional abuse of her husband. The mistreatment started subtly—disguised as jokes and followed by apologies—but over time, it became constant. Hitting her arms and legs became routine, always hidden so that not even her son, Juan, would notice.
Her husband, a lawyer, not only controlled their home but also Sonia’s life: he didn’t allow her to study or work. Still, Sonia chose to stay for her son’s sake, so he could finish his studies thanks to the financial support his father provided.
But one day, after her son graduated from high school and fearing for her life, Sonia made the hardest decision: to leave everything behind. She escaped with nothing but the clothes on her back. That was when her son, Juan, discovered the truth. He chose to leave his father behind and support his mother in every way he could.
Juan now works at a print shop, earning just $100 a month. Despite the unfair circumstances, he dreams of becoming a lawyer. He was recently accepted into a public university and will begin his studies soon—a step that represents hope and a fresh start.
Sonia, despite the persistent pain in her legs—possibly a consequence of years of abuse—doesn’t stop. Every day, she goes out with a resilient smile, selling morocho, mote with chicharrón, empanadas, and espumilla to bring home some income. However, her health has suffered in many ways. During the years she lived under control and restrictions, she was unable to care for her oral health, as her husband saw medical expenses as unnecessary. Now she faces the consequences: gum infections cause constant discharge, which brings her general discomfort, as she even ends up swallowing some of it involuntarily.
Still, mother and son have done everything possible to move forward with dignity. Their daily effort is immense, but they know they are not alone.
When Sonia found the Foundation, a door of hope opened. In response to her urgent situation, they were given a mattress that allowed them to sleep with more dignity, and Sonia was enrolled in our hot meal program. We have also provided groceries, medicine, and we’re working on securing access to dental treatment that will restore not only Sonia’s smile but also the health she deserves.
Today, at Pan de Vida, Sonia and Juan are writing a new story. A story of courage, perseverance, and hope. Although the road ahead is still long, they know they are not walking it alone. With the right support and the strength that binds them as a family, we firmly believe they will heal and move forward—together.
