Beth's experience in Ecuador!

It was such a beautiful experience to lead a group to Damien House. It seemed so surreal - all these months of dreaming, planning -- and then we arrived?! What?!? haha! My role was so different than anything I've done yet in Ecuador, so it was still a lot of new for me.

I loved my one afternoon, I believe it was Wednesday, where I literally just spent two hours with Alcides and Fortunato as they chatted and Fortunato made his hammock. It brought back so many memories of the first time I experienced Damien House, in the fall of 2008! Four years later, did I ever dream I would have volunteered in Ecuador for a year and now brought another 10 people back to experience the magic of Sister Annie and Damien? I'm so blessed.

Speaking of Sister Annie, it was a huge blessing to be able to spend time with her that week. I've known Annie since junior year of college, but didn't really get to know her until later in my volunteer year (probably April 2011ish). Her sparkle and enthusiasm radiated throughout our group, and it was so lovely to see her in action all week long with the patients at Damien.

Huge shout-out as well to the group. You all accomplished so much - going out of your comfort zones with food, speaking Spanish, processing the difficult situations, and taking responsibility to do something about injustice in the future. I couldn't be more proud of where all of you are going in your life journey (Kata and Ana Maria, this includes you!) and cannot wait to see all the incredible things you continue to do in life. The reflections we had in Ecuador amazed me beyond words. Thank you.

And lastly, to all the supporters of our trip - my family and friends, the people at St Joseph's Parish, and all the connections we made along the way. The many donations, contributions, emails, text messages - it's wonderful, and I cannot thank you enough!

Have a blessed day, everyone!

Peace,
Isa (Beth)

My afternoon with Alicides and Fortunato.

The leaders - me, Ann Marie, Annie and Kathleen!