My name is Hesi Correa, I am a very close family friend of Maria, Luis, Yazmin, Sandro, and Erick. I have known this beautiful family for more than four years, and during that time they have become family to me.

Those who know me know that I don't like being in the spotlight. Even though I have a big personality, I've always preferred to work quietly behind the scenes rather than receive recognition. But today, I am asking for help on behalf of a family who is living every parent's worst nightmare.

On Wednesday, July 1st, what began as a beautiful summer day in Vermont ended in unimaginable tragedy. Yazmin and Sandro lost their lives in a devastating accident while fishing. In a single moment, Maria and Luis lost not one child, but two.

There are simply no words that can truly describe the heartbreak this family is carrying.

Yazmin was only 11 years old, but she lived a life filled with love, kindness, and responsibility far beyond her years. She had just graduated from sixth grade at Cambridge Elementary School and was so excited to begin middle school this fall.

At home, Yazmin was so much more than a daughter. She was Erick's second mom, her mother's best friend, the family's translator, and somehow an incredible cook—honestly, much better than I will ever be. She was always helping someone, whether it was caring for her brother, helping around the house, or simply doing whatever needed to be done without being asked.

At school, Yazmin had countless friends. She may have been one of the smallest students, but she had one of the biggest personalities. She was playful, funny, determined, and full of life. She always worked hard, but what made me happiest was seeing her laugh with her friends and simply be a kid. Yes, she had a little bit of sass—and I loved seeing that side of her. After carrying so many responsibilities at home, she deserved every chance she had to just be an 11 year old girl and roll her eyes at adults.

Sandro was only 25 years old and had one of the gentlest hearts I've ever known. He was hardworking, humble, funny, and deeply devoted to his family. He loved playing volleyball and soccer with his friends, many of whom became more like brothers than friends.

One of the things I'll always remember about Sandro was how calm he was. No matter what happened, he never got angry. He would often tell his parents that there was no reason to get mad because life was better when you chose happiness. He had a quiet way of making everyone around him smile.

He never wanted to be a burden to anyone. He always tried to solve problems on his own and consistently put others before himself. That kind of selflessness is rare in anyone, let alone someone so young.

I want to believe Yazmin and Sandro were simply too good for this world, too good for us. I want to believe they did what they needed to do in this world and it was their time to go. As impossible as it is to accept, I find comfort believing they are together, just as they always were at home.

If they weren't helping at home or spending time with friends, they were together. They would walk to the store for chips or candy, laugh together, and simply enjoy each other's company. They shared a bond that words can't fully describe.

Even though they are no longer physically with us, I know they are still together. I know they are watching over one another, watching over Erick, and watching over their parents with the same love they showed every day of their lives.

Over the past several days, I've stood beside this family through the darkest moments imaginable. One of the hardest conversations I've ever had was helping Maria and Luis make decisions about what comes next.

No parent should ever have to plan the funeral of their child. No parent should ever have to plan the funerals of two children at the same time.

Even in the middle of overwhelming grief, Maria and Luis made every decision thinking only about what Yazmin and Sandro would have wanted.

Although Vermont became their home and they loved this community, most of their extended family lives in Ecuador. Given everything they have endured and the uncertainty they continue to face, they have made the heartbreaking decision to send Yazmin and Sandro home, where they can be laid to rest surrounded by generations of family who loved them and where their parents will always know are with loved ones.

This family has already endured more hardship than anyone should ever experience.

In July 2023, during the devastating Vermont floods, their home was filled with nearly four feet of water. They had to be rescued and lost almost everything they owned.

Last fall, while simply on their way to work getting coffee, Luis and other friends were detained by Border Patrol. The trauma, fear, and uncertainty from that experience are something they are still living through today.

Through every obstacle, every setback, and every hardship, they never stopped working. They never stopped fighting for a better future for their children. Everything they do is for their kids.

Now they are facing the greatest loss imaginable.

I will do everything I can to help fulfill their final wish of sending Yazmin and Sandro home.

Unfortunately, it is incredibly expensive. Transporting each child to Ecuador costs approximately $10,000. Combined with funeral expenses, paperwork, and other unavoidable costs, the total is expected to exceed $50,000. On top of that, Maria and Luis have been unable to work while searching and grieving their children.

That is why I am asking for your help.

If you are able to donate, no matter the amount, you will be helping two grieving parents fulfill the last promise they can make to their children…..to send them home.

If you cannot donate, please consider sharing this fundraiser. Every share gives another person the opportunity to help.

In the coming days, we will also announce a community celebration of life. Yazmin and Sandro were happiest when they were surrounded by family, friends, laughter, and love. Their family wants them to be remembered that way—with smiles, stories, and the joy they brought into every room they entered.

From the bottom of my heart, and on behalf of Maria, Luis, Erick, and everyone who loved Yazmin and Sandro, thank you for your kindness, your prayers, your support, and your generosity during this unimaginable time.

Every donation, every prayer, and every act of compassion means more than words can express.

Thank you.