Nominator

Marilyn

Essay

My grandfather is 85 years old with a soul of a 20 year old.  He moved into the United States from Lima, Peru about 9 years ago and since then he has become involved in many activities that range from helping other to teaching others.  He is a mentor and a father figure to those that seek his advice and help in anything.

I nominated my grandfather to the aging and vitality contest because he is an example and a role model I look up to.  He has worked very hard throughout his whole life to provide for his 5 daughters and wife, god rest her soul.  My grandmother died because of breast cancer and after my grandmother’s death, he became really depressed but he didn’t let that stop him.  My mother and aunts brought him to the U.S. in order for him to have better support through the tough times.  Even though in Peru he was the councilor of Rimac, Peru, and one of the leaders in the National Retirees of Peru, he always remained humble.  So, when it was time to take a job in the U.S. he didn’t mind cleaning floors and bathrooms at the age of 76.  He took the job gratefully and worked hard again.

After a couple of years he took a knee injury, causing him to have knee surgery which prevented him from working again.  However, this did not stop his happiness and motivation.  He went through physical therapy and got better; now he is able to walk again with a cane.  Even through those tough times he always had a smile and positive spirit.  He became involved in social activities to teach and mentor others.  I feel he is a great inspiration to any person that gets to know him.  He takes care of himself by eating a healthy diet and by walking a lot.  He always laughs and has a wonderful sense of humor that brightens up everybody’s day.

He was born in Ancash, Peru and feels he has a lot to offer to the Peruvian community.  He is part of the “Centro Cultural Ancash Peru Nueva York” club committee, a club he contributed from its inception.  The club’s goal is to expose the culture and folkloric customs of Ancash and other cities from Peru to the public.  My grandfather also assists in the club’s goal of raising funds by holding Peruvian activities for the public.  My grandfather also goes to service meetings done by the city in which he draws for the “ladies” and gives them his drawings.  For fun, my grandfather goes to parties where he dances and sings.  He also goes to other states such as Virginia, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Connecticut to visit their historical sites and for parties.

He is living prove that it doesn’t matter how old you are or how many obstacles step in your way, first you can overcome them and second you can still live a fun and healthy life.