As mentioned, we were able to visit a couple of homes of a local family living in the Andes. Our guides also recommended we bring treats for the children (candies, pencils, pen, etc). A shout out to my dental friends - we need to give away pediatric toothbrushes as well ;)
The children were very lovely and their families were very accomodating. We were greeted with a lot of smiles and encouragement to continue on our trek. A genuine smile truly is a universal language of love.
I have to admit --- trekking the Andes is pretty physically draining. I couldn't breathe in most parts. Well, I didn't really train for it and not sure if its even possible to train at sea-level on breathing tactics on this altitude.
Nevertheless, as I keep walking and walking ... the children living in the Andes are RUNNING towards us .. up the hilly mountains ... SMILING. As I continue to be amazed of the children's high-altitude breathing capabilities, I stop and ponder if they have Newborn Screening in Peru! I realized that I didn't do my due diligence to read up on the public health efforts in this country. These children, however, seem very fit and patiently await their daily gifts of sweets.
Note to self: Read up on the health statistics of every country I visit from now on .... might as well include an informal meeting with the local health care providers ... when possible ;)
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