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The Lopez Family Guatemala

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One of the hardest parts of the Coronavirus pandemic is not being able to pursue our passion for travel. However, for those who work in tourism the pandemic hasn't only put their passion on hold but has also undone their way of making a living and supporting their families.

While all of those who work in tourism have been affected by the pandemic, some find themselves in dire situations and facing extreme poverty. Please take the time to read the story of Elmer and the Lopez family below and consider supporting them during their emergency.

I was a tour guide in Central America for three years, and worked with many drivers. Elmer was by far the most honest, respectable and reliable of these drivers. He and his family are also very generous and kind people, who have welcomed myself and my partner, Maria, in their home. Elmer was even the one who introduced us!

Unfortunately, Elmer has not been able to work for months, and as many of those who work in tourism, does not receive unemployment insurance. Things have become especially grave for the Lopez family in recent weeks as Elmer's father-in-law suffered an accident which left him paralyzed from the neck down. During a surgery in a public hospital in Guatemala City Elmer's father-in-law became infected with a bacteria that is now threatening his life. Elmer and his wife decided to transfer their father-in-law to a private hospital to receive better care and to have two operations done in hopes of saving his life.

However, after both operations Elmer's father-in-law has not improved and will most likely pass away in the coming days. The Lopez family now faces a debt of 50,000 Guatemalan Quetzales (approx. 9,000CAD) due to the hospital stay and the two surgeries. Health insurance does not cover these costs.

Elmer is currently applying for a loan to pay the 50,000 Quetzal fee to have his father-in-law discharged so that the hospital will stop charging their daily fee. The loan charges a 25% annual interest rate and will be virtually unpayable for the Lopez during the pandemic period and poses a life-long financial burden for them.

I know that many in the area of tourism need help now, but I would like to ask any of you who traveled with me or Maria to take special consideration in helping Elmer. He might have even been your driver! This could be a great way to give back to someone who helped make your trip in Central America memorable.

Feel free to reach out to me with any questions you have or if you remember Elmer or simply want to catch up.

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Donations 

  • Timothy Biscaye
    • $75
    • 5 yrs
  • Ruth Scott
    • $50
    • 5 yrs
  • Vivi Robadey
    • $50
    • 5 yrs
  • Lola Biscaye
    • $30
    • 5 yrs
  • Lauren Rice
    • $30
    • 5 yrs
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Organizer

Luke Irel Harris
Organizer
Vancouver , BC

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