My Story

Tunajá is a very primitive area of the state of Quiché, Guatemala.  The inhabitants are Quiché Indians who trace their ancestral roots to the ancient Mayan civilization.  The prevalent language is the Indian dialect - Quiché.  The people are either farmers or shepherds and live off the fruits of their labors.  Very little money ever changes hands as they use a barter system.  Public education is available - however, most families cannot afford it.  Electricity and running water are not available in most of the area.  Life in Tunajá is extremely difficult.

Hi, I feel blessed to write you and share a little bit about me. I hope you’re doing very well in your country. I am Eduardo Marcelo Alonzo Ortiz. I was born on November 4, 2013. I will turn 11 years old in November. I am repeating 1^st grade at school. My favorite color is light blue. I enjoy eating fried chicken. My health is excellent at the moment. My favorite animal is the goat. My hobby is playing soccer. I have five brothers and three sisters. I usually walk for two hours with my siblings to the feeding program.

I am the son of Gregorio Alonzo Vasquez and Dominga Alonzo Vasquez. My father works as a farmer or day laborer while my mother takes care of us and the house. Moreover, my mother sometimes works as a day laborer to help with our economy. We are members of the Ful Gospel Church. Our humble house belongs to my mother. It is a three-room house including the separate kitchen. It has adobe walls, tin sheet roof and dirt floor. We use a solar panel because we do not have electricity. There is a natural water source. Our domestic animals are chickens and pigs. As a family, we need groceries. Thank you so much for your love and prayers toward us. Lastly, I want you to know that my mother provided this information for you. Well, it is time to say goodbye to you wishing you the best in your life and looking forward to hearing from you soon. I send you my love and prayers.

Every blessing for you!

Eduardo Marcelino Alonzo Ortiz

Translated by: Mireya de Sandoval, AAC Secretary / Antigua