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Hope is a wellspring of the possible. It is a virtue that permeates our existence and our thoughts. in our darkest moments it renders life bearable and helps us to look forward to a happier future. It is the virtue that enables, that encourages, that helps us find meaning in an uncertain existence. Our day begins with hope; hope that the day will go well, that we will be productive, that we will encounter no difficulties. It also ends with hope; hope that tomorrow will be better, less stressful, more bearable. Without hope nothing would seem possible or attainable. We would have no direction, nothing to look forward to, nothing to work towards. When we started life our parents had hopes for us; an education, a happy productive life, material and spiritual prosperity. Hope engendered their efforts so that their desires for us were met. The hope that we feel, that encourages and enables us is of God, for God is hope. He freely gives himself in hope, accompanying us in the vicissitudes of life, directing our thoughts and actions to a brighter, more hopeful future.

In no situation is hope more evident and humbling than in the expectations of children. For children there are no limits, no impossibilities. Their example of hope is a gift to us and must be cherished and nurtured. Our home is an oasis of hope for children who have suffered more in their short existence than most of us will suffer in our lifetime. Jose Luis is a 10 year old who developed corneal tumours in early childhood. He is totally blind but corneal transplants will restore his vision. Due to bureaucracy and other barriers he has been waiting over three years for a transplant. Notwithstanding his blindness he is one of the happiest, brightest and most effusive children 1 have ever known. He knows the layout of the home and can navigate the stairs and rooms with no problem. He frequently bursts into song and dance, radiating a joy that belies his infirmity. Alfredo is a 16 year old that began losing his vision several years ago due to iridocyclitis, a severe inflammation of the inner eye. He became completely blind 6 months ago. He and Jose Luis are fast friends. They are often seen together, Alfredo holding on to Jose Luis as Jose Luis leads him to different parts of the home. The blind helping blind. Hope exists that they will one day see again and towards that goal we are directing all our efforts. With hope one can reach the stars. With hope one can he1p two blind children see again.

All of the other children seen on these pages also entered our home with the hope that their illnesses would be alleviated, a hope they share with their parents.

We thank you for your help and support and for enabling us to nurture and fulfil the hopes of our children. We love you and wish you God’s peace.

The San Damiano Foundation has produced a film in DVD format about our home for children. The film details the day-to-day routine of the home and highlights the plight of the children we care for. It was produced at no cost to the Villa La Paz Foundation. Copies are available for a donation of $20.00. The San Damiano Foundation's mission is to put the power of film at the service of the poor. To order a copy of the film titled, "The Patients of a Saint," please click here