Reuniting with "family"

For over a year, Gary and Martha Bemis have been providing financial support for Erik, a 5 year old from Akumal who is developmentally challenged, and attends a special school in Playa del Carmen. The Bemis' support pays for daily transportation for Erik and his mother to and from the school. Erik's mom cannot work because taking care of him is a full time job, so without the Bemis' help she wouldn't be able to take Erik to the school.

Erik at Hekab Be

In late January Gary & Martha had a reunion with Erik & his family. It was a touching moment of connection for everyone there, with some tears, many hugs and much mutual appreciation.

In the year since Gary & Martha last saw Erik, he has learned to walk on his own (when they last saw him, his mother still used a stroller to get around with him). They commented that, in general, Erik has made so much progress in his motor control, and his mother told them all about the different ways his school is helping him become more independent and self-sufficient.

Although Gary and Martha are very modest about "the little" they do, it has made an enormous difference in the lives of Erik's family.

And the feeling is mutual, as Gary wrote:
We saw Pilar (Erik's older sister) and she ran up and hugged us...and when we left we both got the best hug and kiss....you know I don't think we have ever gotten such a gift from such an angel. We just wish we could do more and spend more time with our extended family. Our hearts belong to Erik and his family.

All of us at Hekab Be are inspired by this warm set of relationships that we have been able to help facilitate.

Are you interested in helping to sponsor the educational needs of a child from Akumal? If so, please contact us at: akumallibrary@gmail.com