THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IN THE WORLD IS TO SHOW LOVE TO YOUR FAMILY AND LET YOUR LOVE BE AN EXAMPLE TO OTHERS.

v   READ LUZ'S STORY   v

I came to the United States from Peru to help my daughter and her husband and to help care for my grandchildren who have autism. When my husband and I decided to come, it was hard to leave my home and everything behind—but it was also easy because of my grandchildren whom I adore. Even though there are many things that are harder for my grandchildren here, they have progressed so much! They attend school and are so smart. We have such wonderful conversations. Anytime they tell me they love me, I know it was all worth it to come here. Both my granddaughter and grandson have such big hearts. There is nothing like being near them! It's beautiful and so loving.

I've been married to my husband for 52 years. We have practically known each other our whole lives. When I came here the first time, I knew we had to stay. He didn’t think twice about staying with me. We know each other so well—even how the other person thinks. He is my most important support system and the one who shows me so much love. I don't know what I would do without him. He has been such a good father and partner in life. And to hear him speak lovingly to our 45-year old son is just amazing to me.

In Peru, we care deeply for the elderly. It is a big part of our culture. My son lives there, and he still cares for my mother—his grandmother—with such dedication. In the United States, it is so different. It seems like that age group is excluded, but that's when the elderly most need their family. No one wants to be a burden, but we need people to care for us as we get older. The most important thing in the world is to show love to your family and to let your love be an example to others. I loved my grandmother dearly and brought her into my home to live with me. Now my daughter has done that as well. I hope that my grandchildren will also be able to see my love for them and show it in their own lives.