The Texas Ramp Project Builds in El Paso

The Texas Ramp Project has finally reached El Paso! On this beautiful January morning, the El Paso Ramp project focused on its third ramp of the day.

Esperanza’s husband, Octavio, was attentive and helpful as the team set up the area to begin the day. Although the morning was crisp, the sun beamed and the winds stayed away allowing the team to work hard on the task.

Octavio kept himself busy and went out of his way so we could meet Esperanza and take her picture. She was unfortunately not feeling well that day, but allowed me a few moments of her time.

During our visit, Octavio explained that the hospital vans that pick up Esperanza sometimes have a ramp that fits perfect on the side of the porch, but not always. For this reason, the ramp our volunteers are working on today is especially helpful for Esperanza. He explained his own health conditions and, through teary eyes, emphasized how this will him because carrying her down the steps is extremely difficult.

Esperanza has only been in the wheelchair for a month and she is able to walk a few steps with a walker. She gets extremely tired and is unable to climb down the high steps of her front porch. Esperanza is quiet natured and once loved gardening. She spoke of watermelons, she had in her garden, which got huge and gestured the size with her hands. Her assistant explained happily that she will probably spend more time outside again this spring now that she has a way to get outside and into the back yard.

The Texas Ramp Project assisted this devoted husband who drives Esperanza the 40 miles to the hospital for her necessary medical care. This ramp was a blessing not only to Esperanza, but also for her caregiver, Octavio as well.