Travel South America: Taking on Sumpango, Guatemala

Last week I had the opportunity to travel to Sumpango, Guatemala with my theology class to experience life within Hogar Madre Anna Vitiello, an orphanage for HIV-affected children run by nuns. In today’s society, the stigma surrounding HIV is a controversial and heavy subject and this trip has made me even more aware of the importance of doing your research on the topic to stay well informed.

Our trip began with a long drive from Guatemala City to Sumpango after arriving at the airport. The change in scenery from the bustling capital to the smaller village was breathtaking. I was instantly reminded of memories of Nigeria, where driving through the village meant green foliage on the sides of the roads, the occasional hawkers and most obvious of all – the heat.

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The orphanage was more developed than I expected. The layout of the compound was beautiful, with a stunning chapel, an elementary school and large playground, kitchen and several buildings where the nuns and children ate and slept. There was running water and constant electricity, which was a surprise, but what stood out the most from the moment we arrived, was the life and energy in the children.

They had to be the sweetest children with the most genuine and cheesy grins I had ever come across. When they hugged me, I could feel truly feel their love. They were literally always happy to see you, and this made it difficult for me to reconcile their youthful innocence with their sickness. Our biggest problem was probably the language barrier – none of us knew more than a handful of Spanish words and our efforts and pronunciation were more comical than meaningful.

Our days consisted of mass at 6am with the sisters, followed by breakfast, lunch and dinner. In between, we would help with chores (dishes, sweeping and mopping, laundry etc.), play with the children, nap, or gather with my group for deep talks. Deep talks were another highlight of the trip for me, it was heartwarming to see the entire team become very close within the space of a week.

We also spent a day in Antigua, visiting the ruins of Cathedral San Jose, Covento de las Capucinas, Fridas, a restaurant inspired by artist Frida Kahlo, and a local market. 

 Amidst meals of tortillas, papusas, tamales, and roasted corn, I fell in love with this beautiful city and the children of Madre Anna Vitiello. Even with the scorching heat and lack of wifi, Sumpango was a genuine and extraordinary experience. I am thankful for the opportunity, the people encountered, and the memories that now have a place in my life.

Thanks for reading! Ciao for now. xo

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