My Story

Chixocol, where your child lives, is a very small village nestled in a mountain valley in the state of Quiche, Guatemala. Life in this state is very difficult and somewhat isolated from the outside world. Most families live in one-room adobe houses with dirt floors and a small attached kitchen. The extremely poor live in houses made of corn stalks. In the past few years electricity and water have become available to most people in the area - however, indoor plumbing is very rare. Most of the families are farmers or shepherds and live off the fruits of their labors. Public education is available for those who can afford it and consider it of value. Life in Quiche is always a challenge.

I fondly greet you, hoping you are doing well. My name is Elvis Estanli Grave Grave and I will tell you a little about my life. I was born on June 18, 2018. By the grace of the Lord, I am doing well. I am 6 years old and my favorite hobby is playing with my toy cars with my friends and brother. I have one brother but no sisters. I am enrolled in first grade this year. My favorite food is fried chicken and I like the color red. I like dogs because they are cute and playful. I am glad because my whole family is doing well. We attend the Catholic Church in our village. My father’s name is Raul Grave Toj. He works as a day laborer and farmer. My mother’s name is Brenda Grave Pilo. She is dedicated to taking care of my brother and me.

I beg you to pray for my family and our needs. Our priorities are clothes, shoes, and groceries. We live in our own house. One of my aunts and her son live with us. The house is made of adobe with a tin sheet roof and a concrete floor. It has two rooms, a separate kitchen, electricity, and running water. We raise a few pigs and hens at home for our consumption. The feeding program is about 25 minutes from my house. My mom usually takes me there on foot. I say goodbye to you now, but I hope to hear from you soon.

Kisses and hugs,

Elvis Estanli Grave Grave

Translated by: Hillary Popol, AAC Secretary/Antigua Guatemala