Over the last four years, I've had the great pleasure of knowing Don Luis and his family, including his daughter through offering retreats at Chakra, a beautiful eco-lodge at the foothills of Chirripó National Park in rural Costa Rica.

For those of you who have been to Chakra, you'll likely remember Don Luis, the caretaker of the land, with his quiet presence, generosity, and deep connection to this place. You may also remember Roxana, his daughter, who cooked for us with so much love during our retreats. They're truly the heart and soul of Chakra.

They are the stewards of the land. The caretakers. The ones who have helped keep Chakra alive over the years so that people from all over the world could come to this sacred place and have life-changing experiences.

And now, this family is going through an incredibly difficult time. Don Luis is currently very ill with stage 4 cancer. His wife is at home and unable to walk after two knee surgeries that did not heal properly. And now Roxana has just been diagnosed with advanced breast cancer, which means she is no longer able to work while she goes through chemotherapy, surgery, and then more treatment afterward.

This is a small rural Costa Rican family with no pension, no insurance, and no clear timeline for when Roxana may be able to return to work. In the meantime, the basic cost of living continues, and groceries alone in Costa Rica are now on par with North America.

This family has spent years caring for the land and serving others. They have helped create the conditions for so many people to come to Chakra, rest, heal, transform, reconnect, and be nourished.

Now, they are the ones who need care. If you feel moved in your heart to contribute, truly, no amount is too small. Every contribution will help with food, medical needs, transportation, basic living expenses, and support for the family while both Don Luis and Roxana are in treatment and unable to work.

All funds raised will be sent directly to the family. And if you would like to include a message for Don Luis, Roxana, or their family, please feel free to do so. I know your words would mean a great deal to them.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, contributing, sharing, or simply holding this family in your prayers and heart.

With so much gratitude,

Melanie