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.

Hello! My name is Daniel Perez, and I would like to introduce myself to you. I appreciate this opportunity. I was born on October 22, 2018, in Joyabaj Quiche. I am 7 years old. My hobby is playing soccer. I am in the 1st grade at school. My favorite food is scrambled eggs. I like the color white and sheep. My health is good. I have two brothers and one sister. I go to the program with some neighbors and friends. I live 10 minutes away from the program.

My father´s name is Manuel Hernandez Hernandez. He works as a farmer or day laborer to support us. My mother is Santos Perez. She is a housewife. I only have my mother’s last names because my father did not have his personal identification when I was born. Thank God, my parents are healthy. We are not attending any church yet. As a family, some of our necessities are clothes, food, corn and shoes.

About my house, well we live with my paternal grandparents at their house. The house has two rooms and a separate kitchen. Our family uses one room. It is made of tin sheet walls and roof and dirt floor. We do not have running water, but one neighbor gives it to us, and we carry it with plastic jars. Besides that, he gives us electricity. Both water and electricity expenses are shared by my grandfather and father monthly. We do not have any domestic animals at home. Well, I have to say Goodbye to you for now, but not before blessing you in the name of Jesus.

Best regards,

Daniel Perez

Translated by: Mireya de Sandoval, AAC Secretary / Antigua