Fortitude
This is Manuela. She is one of our original Finding Freedom through Friendship mothers. Born with a disability, Manuela continues to inspire us with her ability to quietly and competently do what her son, elderly mother, and mentally ill sister need her to do in order to survive. There are no disability benefits, no social welfare, no food pantry locations in rural Guatemala.
This amazing woman washes clothing for people in the community who have disposable income, which provides her with a few dollars a week. Soon after this photo was taken, FFF was able to provide Manuela with an enclosure for her pilia (sink) that we purchased for her. No matter how strong she is, nobody should have to stand in the rain and mud to wash their dishes.
