Early Life
“My name is Natália. I am 13 years old. I was born in 2012. I live in the Centro Novo, state of Maranhão, one of the poorest states in Brazil. This is my first year of studies in the Sisters of Mary Girlstown. I live with my parents and 6 more siblings. Life at home is not easy. My parents did not finish their studies, that is why they did have good opportunities in life.
My father, Francisco, is a fisherman and a fish vendor. My mother, Marilene, takes care of the house. We receive an aid from the Government because of our low family income that is why I never hesitate to take and pass the exam for the Girlstown.
During weekends, I used to go with my father fishing and selling fish. Our small village is very distant from the city so we do not have basic sanitation. We do not have potable water but we have a deep well, which we use in our daily needs especially for cooking and drinking. Our house is situated near the cemetery; this is also a bit discomfort especially on rainy days because we are near the slope. Oftentimes I got stomach problems, due to impure water.”
Life at school
“In my first week in the Girlstown I suffered a very severe stomach-ache. The Sisters rushed me to the hospital and found out that I had indigestion, a roundworm infection and anaemia. I was admitted for several days. The Sisters took care of me well. I am so grateful for my opportunity to stay and study.
I was very happy when I am accepted to study here in Girlstown, for me this is a dream come true. This is the first time that I sleep on a bed. At the house I used sleep in a hammock because our small house has no space. Here I learn many things and I enjoy a lot with the company of the sisters and with my companions. When I grow up, I would like to be a doctor to help the health of the people especially the poor children.
Thank you, dear friends, for your constant support. Because of your generosity many children like me will grow smart and healthy. May God bless you.”
