During the second half of my summer, I was lucky enough to travel to Peru thanks to GHI and Dr. Wetzel. This was a four-week internship, during which we spent three weeks in Peru and the following week writing blogs and documenting our experiences. This internship is possibly the most impactful experience I have ever had. I have never been in a position where I could make such a significant impact on so many people. There are several moments during this internship
when I felt truly human. The people I interacted with brought out the best in me, and I hope I was able to do the same for them.
For me, the key moments from this experience were meeting Luis Angel and Patty. I first met Luis Angel. I met him on my first day in Lima, specifically in the area of Pamplona Alta. Initially, what started as a visit to get acquainted with the area and where we would be working ended with me developing a relationship with Luis. His mother was ill, and I was tasked with keeping Luis busy while his mother received medical attention. I kept him occupied with toys, drawing, and playing games. He was such an energetic young kid. For me, this was a human moment. Here I was, this privileged college kid from the United States, playing fighter jets with this Peruvian kid from Pamplona Alta. We are from entirely different worlds facing different challenges, but during these few hours together, we were just two people sharing a space and sharing toys. It brought me great joy, and I hope I was able to help him have a good time.
Next, we went to Huánuco. There, I met Simón and Patty. Both of them have Down Syndrome and live in impoverished areas. I first met Patty. She is the sweetest soul I have ever met. She is pure positivity and lovability. We ended up building a makeshift garden in Patty’s yard to help her mother. We gifted seeds so she can keep replanting these fruits and veggies to help lower her
food costs when caring for Patty. Their story can bring anyone to tears. I am grateful that I was able to help them. My favorite memory from being around Patty was during a break from building the garden. She sat next to me, and we played Candy Crush together. I know that it is a silly moment, but it was again very human. Two people sharing a space and a moment. It has
become a memory I will never forget.
I want to thank the entire GHI-Peru team and Dr. Wetzel for providing me with the opportunity to have this experience. I loved every second of my trip, forming unforgettable friendships and creating lasting memories. This internship and what it has provided me will stay with me for the rest of my life.
