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 laborers. 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.

It is a blessing to greet you for the first time. My name is Marta Viviana Riz Perez. I am 10 years old. I was born on March 22, 2015, in Zacualpa. My father´s name is Alex Eduardo Riz Gonzalez. He left to go to The United States 4 years ago. He has communication with us. He works in construction three days a week.  My mother´s name is Encarnación Perez Leon. She takes care of us and the house. I just have one sister.

As a family we attend the Pentecost church. Groceries are what we need the most as a family. Praise the Lord, our health is good. I am a 2nd grade student. I like eating fried chicken and playing with my dolls. My favorite color is purple, and my favorite animal is the rabbit. My cousin and aunt take me to the feeding program. We usually walk for 30 minutes.

My grandparents share their house where we live currently. It has three rooms made of adobe, tin sheet roof and cemented floor. We do not have a kitchen so my mother must cook in the corridor. We use candles because we do not have electricity. We have running water that should be paid for every year. Well, thank you so much for your attention. I send my love and prayers to you and your family.

Kisses and hugs,

Marta Viviana Riz Perez

Translated by: Mireya de Sandoval, AAC Secretary / Antigua