Living in small apartments in Los Angeles, California wasn’t easy, but even so, there were always happy moments. Cousins, brothers and friends of the family gathered on special occasions, for birthdays or for the end of the year holidays. We grew united and together. While we lacked many things, we were blessed to never lack love and happiness.

In the picture are Andrés (sitting), Leonardo (with green shirt), my father in the purple shirt and I in the colored shirt. My older brothers did a lot of sacrifice for all of us–their younger siblings. Andrés and Leonardo, along with my mom and dad, worked extensive hours throughout the years, to provide us with the opportunity to get an education for a better future.