Over the next few weeks, I’d like to introduce you to some of the rehabilitation promoters that work with us in Guatemala. TCI (Therapy Clinics International) would not exist without them. They are the heart of what we do and they are a joy to me and those we serve. As I introduce you to some of them, I’m going to be sharing a couple words that come to mind as I think of each of them. I’ve shared these words with them and asked their permission to share a little of their story with you.

Patience and peace describe Andrea, one of our newest workers. She joined our team at ASELSI last year. Recently, she traveled with me to our clinic at Maripositas in Canilla, and I got to know her better.

Andrea’s sister has autism and has been a part of our therapy program and Ovejitas, an educational program for those with special needs at ASELSI, for several years. Andrea has had the responsibility of bringing her sister to ASELSI for these programs. Noticing her character and the way she interacted with her sister, the director of Ovejitas encouraged Andrea to sign up for our rehabilitation promoter training in 2015. She did, despite already studying for a degree in natural sciences at the university on the weekends.

Having a sister with autism is both a joy and a struggle. Andrea knows firsthand what many of our families are experiencing in having a family member with a disability. Andrea’s sister doesn’t look as if she has any problems, but her behavior often isn’t in line with someone of her age, and many people do not understand.  Though they are welcomed at church, Andrea and her sister find it hard to attend. Andrea wonders what her future holds as her sister gets older. Who will take care of her is just one of the questions, questions I am sure all of our families have.

Andrea is a great student, and she has both the academic knowledge through our trainings and practical experience from her family to make a great rehabilitation promoter. Because of this, when she works with her patients at ASELSI, she is able to do so with patience and peace.