Building Hope and Health
One Family’s Journey to Prevent Chagas Disease in Bolivia
On World Chagas Disease Day, we spotlight the story of one resilient family in Punilla Chica, Bolivia—working hard to protect their health, transform their home, and shape a brighter future.
What is Chagas Disease?
Chagas disease is a potentially life-threatening illness caused by transmission primarily by the Vinchuca bug. These insects often hide in the cracks and crevices of poorly constructed homes—putting families living in poverty at a much higher risk.
Through the work of our local partner OBADES in Bolivia, we’re helping families prevent Chagas disease through the work of the Healthy Housing Project by improving their homes and access to health information.
Meet Juan and His Family: Living on the Edge of Risk
Juan Herrera Camacho, a 54-year-old farmer, lives in the remote community of Punilla Chica in the Municipality of Mizque. He and his wife Máxima have a large family and limited resources. Their adobe house (Adobe is dried mud brick, traditionally made from compacted sand, clay, and straw (or grass), mixed with water, and baked in the sun), like many in the area, was vulnerable to infestation—lacking plaster and other basic protections.
“Our house was built from adobe and we all used to sleep in one room,” Juan shares. “It was falling apart and the bugs could easily get in.”
Juan works the land growing lemons and corn, mostly for his family’s own use. What little is left over they try to sell. His wife Máxima tends the household and helps with farming. Together, they also care for several grandchildren left in their custody by daughters who migrated to the city in search of a better life.
A Turning Point: The Healthy Housing Project
When Juan heard about the Healthy Housing Project through a neighbouring community, he asked to join. With the support of OBADES and CBM, his family began to receive:
- Construction materials to improve and plaster their adobe walls
- Training in health, hygiene, and Chagas prevention
- Ongoing encouragement from program staff and visiting volunteers
“Even though I had an accident this year, I’m still working hard,” says Juan. “I don’t want to let anyone down. Together with my son, we’re building a better house with three rooms—because we have many children.”
With these changes, their home is becoming a healthier and safer space, less susceptible to Chagas and other diseases.
The Impact on Daily Life
The impact of the project goes beyond walls and roofs. It brings emotional support, spiritual encouragement, and renewed hope.
“The [project] technician is always visiting us, encouraging us to live healthier and reminding us that there is a God who cares about us,” Juan says.
Still, challenges remain. Their community lacks a school, so the children must travel over an hour to attend classes in another village. During the week, they live away from home in rented accommodations, adding to the family’s financial strain.
“We have no choice but to send them far away to study. We want them to have a better life. My dream is for my children to study and become professionals,” Juan says. “At the very least, I want them to have good jobs, to live better than we did.”
Why Chagas Disease Prevention Matters
Chagas disease is one of the neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) that disproportionately affect people living in poverty. By improving housing conditions and raising awareness, we can break the cycle of poverty and disease—empowering families like Juan’s to live with dignity, health, and hope.
How You Can Help
- Support Prevention Efforts: Your donation can help provide materials and training to protect more families from Chagas disease.
- Pray for families like Juan’s: Ask God to bless their efforts, protect their children, and bring lasting transformation to their community.
- Raise awareness: Share this story on social media to help others learn about Chagas disease and the simple steps that make a life-saving difference.
