This includes:
- 12 wheelchairs/strollers
- 11 walkers
- 37 checked bags= 1,850 lbs of donations!!!
Despite multiple questions and strange looks throughout our travel day, we took it in stride and enjoyed the special accommodations. We even had a VIP shuttle ride across the airport and some of us got to be the first passengers on the plane. This experience taught us all a lesson on the complexities associated with traveling with physical challenges. It was interesting to hear and see the discrimination towards individuals using adaptive equipment without seeing a physical disability.
Upon arrival to Guatemala City, we traveled an hour to Antigua and had a tour of the town. We had our first exposure to Guatemalan culture as we explored the market and saw Central Park. The market showed us that the occupation of shopping for Guatemalans is much more than just purchasing goods. Instead, time in the market is a community event and a time to be together. We returned to our hotel, Santa Anna, and enjoyed our first dinner together.
We are exhausted but we are looking forward to our first excursion day exploring Lake Atitlan!
Stay tuned for more exciting updates from XUOT Guatemala Team 2015! We will be sure to add pictures throughout our stay!
Adios!
Sarah Dean (Student)and Katie Claar (Practitioner)
So glad you all arrived safefly brining your gifts, time and talents. What a great experience for you to be a small part of His grand plan! Live, learn and laugh together during this short but powerful opportutiy to change lives forever. Keep the blogs coming and the encounters plentiful.
ReplyDeleteSheila Dean
Sarah,
ReplyDeleteYes, many people who have jobs do not understand the legalities that they are in charge of. You should have taught them that it is illegal to ask about the disabilities of people or said something to make them think and maybe they will not challenge the next person. Some people just do not understand, or can not place themselves in other peoples' shoes!!!
Aunt Kathy :) Have fun & stay safe!!!!