“Milagros and Rosy”

“Milagros and Rosy”

Elder Darrel L. Hammon

There aren’t many times in one’s life where you feel helpless, perhaps more humble than before. Today was one of those days.

We had the opportunity—privilege is the better word—to visit Milagros, Rosy and part of their family. Amelia Peña, a wonderful woman who helps so many, introduced us a couple of weeks ago. Amelia came to the Area Office looking for help for Rosy, a young woman with diabetes. She was referred to us as Welfare Specialists. I received her number and gave her a call. No one answered the phone; so, I left a message, telling her who we were and what we did. For a few days, I heard nothing. Then, I received a phone call, and she told me who she was and what she did. Basically, she goes to hospitals and different places to see what she can do to help.

We made an appointment to go visit a new family she is trying to help: Milagros, the mother, and Rosy, the daughter. We met in front of La Sirena, the Dominican version of Wal-Mart. Interestingly, part of the top of the building was engulfed in smoke when we arrived; so, we parked in the back and walked to the front where numerous onlookers chattered and pointed at the continuous billowing smoke. In the melee, we found Amelia. Trying to ignore all of the fire trucks that were now piling up, we walked to our car and headed to where Milagros and Rosy lived.

Where Milgros and Rosy are staying while receiving medical treatment

The approach to their road was precarious. Literally, it was a drop off. We inched our little Honda Civic crossways until it dropped cautiously down on to the dirt road below. Crawling our way between small shacks, we drove carefully through gullies full of water, around rocks and other obstacles in the road, passed people just sitting in their chairs. They watched us drive through their neighborhood, probably wondering what a car was doing in this part of the city. Finally, we pulled up to Milagros’ son’s home, parked the car, and then walked down the narrow, short path to their home.

Milagros greeted us as if we were her long-lost children. She was wonderful! A gaggle of children, cousins, nieces, and grandchildren, hovered around her and in the house. She invited us in and pulled out chairs for us to sit on. She told us they were in Santo Domingo for short time, attending to the medical challenges Rosy had. Unfortunately, Rosy was at the doctor’s office for treatment. After a delightful visit, we told her we would be back. I gave her my card so she could call us. 

Two days ago, Rosy called me and told me they were leaving town and would like to meet us. On Friday, we had some time; so, I called Amelia to see if she wanted to go with us. She did. We picked her up at her mother’s home, just a couple of miles from where Rosy and her mother were staying.

When we drove up and pulled into the little walkway, leading to their home. We climbed out and headed down the path. They had done laundry today. Clothes, mostly little pink blouses, hung on ropes, stretching from one side of the path to the other. We had to duck to get into the house. 

the gaggle of girls

Yanaira, the daughter-in-law, greeted us at the door and invited us in. We sat in white plastic chairs and were quickly surrounded by cute little girls, from two-years old to ten. Soon, another daughter arrived, her hair plastered with maroon hair dye. She said she had another hour to go. We talk for a bit before Milagros came into the room. 

Rosy and her mother, Milagros

Milagros had on a black with blue designs; she had dressed up just for us. She looked wonderful. Soon, Rosy came in, dressed in jeans, a bright yellow top with a cute yellow bow in her hair. Walking gingerly, she greeted us like we were her hermanos. She showed us her feet and how they were improving. One of them had one of those diabetic sores similar to the one Heber had for several years. This one was looking good, though. According to Milagros, the doctors said she was improving. Such good news!

We had an incredible visit. We gave each of the women a Book of Mormon with our testimonies and one of my favorite photos of the Santo Domingo Temple. We discussed a bit about the importance of the Book of Mormon. We read together the Book of Mormon promise found in Moroni 10:3-5. They took turns reading. It was wonderful to hear the promise read aloud in their home. 

Milagros' family

Soon, it was time to go. We took pictures, said our sad goodbyes, gave Dominican abrazos, and then waved goodbye.  They then watched us from the doorway, smiling and waving until we passed beyond their vision. What a sight it was to see them there. This little family doesn’t have much, but they have love for others and the willingness to share that love. 

Although I came feeling helpless as to how to help Rosy, you helped me understand how blessed I really am. I came a bit humbled to your home but left feeling I had just been in the court of queens. Thank you, Milagros and Rosy! You truly are examples to us for your commitment and your willingness to try to help each other and others like me.