The trip is almost over and leaving all the children is heart wrenching. They have all made me become a better person. I have learned to be thankful for what I have. Most of the children go home to indescribable things: an over dosage of medicine, no food, a table as a bed, parents that don’t give a care in the world about them, and more. At one of the home visits Julissa, who is 24 and has cerebral palsy, lives in these conditions. Her mother over doses her medicine, puts her on a “bed” in a closet, locks the door, and would not feed her for days. Hearing the story drove me insane, but I was told to turn my negative energy into positive energy that can help me. All this helps me to be the person I want to be.
     Friday, we had a fiesta to say goodbye to all the children. When we got to the school, the children were so happy to see us. We gave them all hugs and kisses as we arrived and throughout the fiesta. We danced, talked, and played around with all of them. Each moment I spent with them is an amazing memory I will cherish forever. We gave everyone food and to see their faces when they got it was amazing. They seemed very thankful and I was happy to see them enjoying every moment. When it came time to say goodbye I just wanted to pack them all in my suitcase and take them home with me. When we were saying our goodbyes, Dayana started to cry. It made me feel so loved to know how much I have helped and impacted her life. She has impacted mine too and it hurts me to not be helping her anymore. It was difficult to hug everyone and know that that is probably our last moment together. I savored each and every second I had left with them. As they piled into the van, we gave them hugs and kisses. We waved as they drove away. They all have their place in my heart and they will never be forgotten.
     This trip has pushed me out of my comfort zone and has pushed me to be a better person. I have had an outstanding time and have learned so much from this trip. I love all the children and memories I have made here.

                “One smile can start a friendship-

                One word can end a fight

                One look can solve a relationship

                One individual can change your life.”