The last couple of years have been very difficult for me after losing my beautiful mum. But it was she who encouraged me to visit Central America, something I had dreamed of for a long time. So six months after her passing, I packed my bags and set off, travelling first through Guatemala and Mexico, before making a stop in Honduras so I could finally meet the 13-year-old girl I had been corresponding with.
I have to say, I was pretty nervous, wanting to make a good impression. After a four hour drive accompanied by ChildFund Honduras staff, our journey ended in a small town at a local ChildFund office. I was overwhelmed. Outside this concrete building was a giant sign with my name on it! There were also over 20 ChildFund workers and volunteers there, all to welcome me!
When a young girl approached me, I knew it was Marilin. She came right up and gave me a hug and kiss. I couldn’t quite believe it. Then I met her mum and little brother and sister.
The local ChildFund staff and volunteers then introduced themselves one by one and I also received an overview of the various projects being run in the area. I was absolutely blown away at the commitment of these people, who themselves are living and working in standards well below those of Australia and New Zealand.