My whole family was born in Guatemala, except for me. My two sisters and parents came here way before I was ever born. My dad fled the country due to conflicts surrounding a Guatemalan civil war in the 80s and my mom left her affluent lifestyle in the name of love for my father. By coming to California, they had to start from scratch to get to where we are now. I’ve grown up listening to many stories about the struggles my family went through. From splitting a burger in 4 parts, to dumpster diving for cardboard, my parents worked diligently to provide for themselves and their daughters. I’m grateful to be raised by hardworking and dedicated parents who instilled the importance of love, faith, and resilience in each one of us. Their story is one I tell proudly.