As the plane took off, I felt part of my soul waving goodbye from below.
Maria Sierra
GAES Campoamor (Zaragoza) – Cape Verde with Fundación Clarós
No one prepares you for what I’ve been fortunate enough to experience. We take so many comforts for granted—things that, unfortunately, are hard to find or nearly nonexistent in these countries.
I’ve cried and felt helpless, I’ve laughed, I’ve blended in with them, eaten what they ate, listened to their stories, received hugs of gratitude—the kind that move you deeply and make you want to be better—and shared looks of complicity with children, those wide-eyed stares as they wait for you to be part of their miracle of hearing.
Each day was different and unique, and the work GAES Solidaria does is incredible. It’s a tiny grain of sand in a world full of need, but I assure you—I was inside that grain, and it is absolutely worth it.
I tried to give the best of myself. And as I sat on the plane looking out the window, I realized that part of my soul was saying goodbye from below, because it had chosen to stay with them.
I want to thank GAES Solidaria for giving me the opportunity to travel with them—Verónica, Clara, and Mª José Gassó, I felt supported every step of the way.
To Janett, from the audiology service in Cape Verde, for her warmth and enthusiasm, and to the hospital staff who welcomed me as one of their own.
My experience in Cape Verde was wonderful—and a turning point in my life. Thank you.