We’re told to give thanks in ALL circumstances. Here’s mine in this one. I’m thankful for Gustavo Boquin. I’ve known him now for seven years, and he’s become a dear friend.  Gustavo is naturally set apart from the rest in this country of Honduras because he's a man of integrity. There’s a saying here, “A la orden.” It means, “At your service.” Everyone says it, but few mean it. I’ve seen Gustavo say this, and follow it up with action. He’s helped me, and Signs of Love, numerous times. I’ve seen him jump at the chance to help other people whether it’s some food they need, a car part, some cash, help with their work, or a listening ear. He’s given his time to Signs of Love to help us with things I couldn’t manage. Another thing that sets him apart is his humility, and love for his family. In a country where macho-ness reigns, he goes the route of being Christlike. This man lives & breathes for his family. He adores his wife &  two children, and wants nothing more than to provide the best for them. 

August 19, he was admitted into the hospital because of a high fever. They assumed it was dengue until they realized it wasn’t. Gustavo Boquin has been diagnosed with Leukemia. Gustavo, and his wife live from paycheck to paycheck, with no insurance, and no 'nest-egg'. They are diligent, hard workers. Gustavo drives a taxi, and his wife is a driver for a medical group. Since there's no 'extra' money for medical care, Gustavo is at the government hospital where the conditions are unimaginable.  He needs someone there to help him with basic needs like getting his food, helping him to the bathroom which is down the hall, etc etc. There are no call buttons for a nurse to come.  So his wife is there to take care of him. He’s in the city of San Pedro Sula, a 3-hour drive from where I live. Yenny, and I went to see him Friday, August 30, because we wanted to pray with him in person, asking God for miracles.  I last saw Gustavo on October 22nd. He contends to stay positive despite the harsh reality he faces. I'm inspired by his manner of clinging to God, and staying positive. The Leukemia has entered his Central Nervous System, so now he's getting double treatment; Regular chemo, and chemo injected into his spinal fluid. It’s hard seeing someone we love so sick, and without options.  Gustavo has always been a champion. He’s a champion of love. He’s a champion of generosity. Now he’ll be a champion of this hurdle.

Why $7,337? I asked them to give me a list of their basic monthly costs. They total L30,692 which is approximately $1,253. With them both not being able to work, they have NO money for these expenses. How wonderful it will be if we could help them through this disastrous time in relieving their stress of not losing their house, nor schooling for their children, etc. Apart from their tragedy, Gustavo's wife, Fany, has a brother who just lost his house. It burned to the ground with everything in it. He has a wife, 2 boys, and pregnant with their third. Their hearts are definitely being weighted. Back to Gustavo, so I'm hoping we'll be able to raise enough to cover their costs for 6 months as the doctor says he won't be able to go back to work until at least 6 months pass due to his treatments, and extremely weakened immune system. The actual total is more than listed here, but a few friends heard of this need before I actually posted, and sent in money.  Please consider being a part of this, helping to alleviate some of their stress, and showing them love always wins.