NPH Is My Home: A Story of Resilience

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My name is María Isabel Siquinajay, and I was born on June 22, 1989, in El Aldea Chimochoy, San Andrés Itzapa, Chimaltenango. Since birth, I have lived with hydrocephalus, mild intellectual disability, and diplegia.

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NPH is My Home

My name is María Isabel Siquinajay, and I was born on June 22, 1989, in El Aldea Chimochoy, San Andrés Itzapa, Chimaltenango. Since birth, I have lived with hydrocephalus, mild intellectual disability, and diplegia. Despite these challenges, I have learned to live with and manage them effectively.

My Arrival at NPH Guatemala

I vividly remember the first day I arrived at NPH Guatemala (Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos). My aunt accompanied me, and as we approached the gates, there was a palpable sense of anticipation. I entered the grounds and immediately felt a sense of belonging. The atmosphere was warm, welcoming, and full of life, reflecting the vibrant spirit of the community. For the first time, I felt like I was in a place where I could truly be myself, free from fear or judgment.

The reason I came to NPH is because my mother passed away when I was very young. With my disability, my father could not care for me alone, especially since he had to work and did not have the financial means to support me.

Family Connections

My father lives with my sister in Itzapa, which is about 10 minutes from NPH. She has eight children, some of whom have children of their own, so our family is quite large. My sister holds a special place in my heart; she is the most important person in my life. She visits me with her family whenever possible, and I also get the chance to spend holidays with them. Christmas time, in particular, brings me great joy.

Although I always look forward to returning to NPH, which has truly become my home, being with my family is a comfort I cherish. However, not all family relationships are simple. I also have a brother who struggles with alcohol addiction, and a sister with whom I no longer maintain contact. Over the years, I have learned to accept these realities and cope with them.

Life at NPH

I have memories of undergoing an operation as a child because my head wouldn’t stop growing. Since I was young, I have either used a wheelchair or walking sticks. The use of walking sticks feels more normal to me because I don’t know anything else. I prefer walking on them as it gives me a sense of independence. I strive to do everything for myself at Sagrado Corazón, the area for people with disabilities at NPH. Whether it’s getting up, taking a shower, or using the toilet, I always try to manage on my own because it makes me feel good.

I also help out with washing or any other tasks where I can lend a hand. In NPH, I live in Sagrado Corazón, sharing a room with three other women.

Work and Activities at NPH

At NPH, I thoroughly enjoy working at Tienda Sonrisa (the Kiosk), where I have the opportunity to serve customers and sell food and drinks. I also participate in various activities, such as painting, sewing, playing games, and engaging in occupational therapy and puzzle-solving with Teacher Paty and our aunts and uncles. Once a month, I take part in the Olympiada, a special event in Guatemala City, where people from Sagrado Corazón come together for friendly competition.

My Support System at NPH

Aunt Demezia and Aunt Myriam are my two favorite people at NPH. They are patient, loving, and also firm when needed. I enjoy solving puzzles with them or simply sitting and talking. They treat me like a normal adult, and I truly appreciate that. We can talk about anything, and I always feel understood.

My favorite meal at NPH is “Pollo Campero” with French fries, though I also love chicken with sauce and rice. However, I don’t like lentils, cereals, or pancakes.

Therapy and Personal Growth

Twice a week, I have physiotherapy sessions with Darling, the physiotherapist. These sessions, which focus on enhancing my mobility, can be exhausting, but I also enjoy them because they help me maintain my physical health. During therapy, I sometimes listen to music, which helps me relax. Music has a special place in my heart, and it’s my go-to remedy when I feel stressed.

In addition to physiotherapy, I also participate in activities designed to stimulate my brain and senses, helping me maintain mental clarity. I especially enjoy the parts of therapy that involve hand massages, as my hands often hurt from using walking sticks.

My Wishes and Dreams

One of my biggest wishes is to have new walking sticks that would ease the pain in my hands, which often develop blisters. Despite this, I prefer using walking sticks rather than a wheelchair, as it allows me to feel more “normal,” even if I have to take small, slow steps.

A Sense of Responsibility and Empathy

At NPH, I’ve taken on the role of a big sister to some of my peers. I enjoy helping others, offering support when needed, and encouraging them to stay positive. Although I am naturally cheerful, I do have moments when I feel frustrated or melancholic. During these times, I retreat into solitude and prefer quiet corners where I can collect my thoughts. Despite these moments of withdrawal, I strive to connect with others, offer a smile, and share a kind word or piece of advice.

Gratitude for NPH

Thanks to NPH, I live a relatively normal life. I have a routine that I manage with increasing independence, a group of friends to talk to, and therapies that help me maintain my mobility. I am always well-fed, and most importantly, I have the feeling of being at home. I am deeply grateful to everyone who supports NPH Guatemala, as their help has enabled me to have the wheelchair and walking sticks I need.

Reflecting on my journey at NPH Guatemala, I feel immense gratitude for the opportunities and experiences that have shaped me. This place has become my home, and the friendships I have formed here will last a lifetime.