| A Race Against Time | Nobel Peace Prize nominee, Susana Valadez, channels her courage and determination to save her stepson’s life and empower a remote tribal community.
Four decades ago, Susana Valadez, an American anthropologist, left her home near Lake Michigan, boarded a jet — then a train, a single-engine plane, and a mule — to arrive at a remote settlement in the Sierra Madres. It was home to the Huichol tribe. She had no idea that, one day, she would marry a Huichol yarn artist, raise three children in the native tradition, and open the vibrant Huichol Center to support the preservation of their arts, language, and way of life. She has also helped ensure that their gorgeous, handmade jewelry has reached the audience it deserves.
Today, in the middle of a frightening pandemic, when the Huichol people are already struggling to sell their art in a depressed market and feed their families, a member of their community — Susana’s stepson, Miguel Jr. — nearly lost his life in a terrible accident. His wife, small children, extended family, and entire community are doing all they can to support him in his recovery. |  | Now we want to help. Susana and her family are trying to raise funds to cover the staggering medical costs — surgeries, antibiotics, pain medications, feeding and breathing tubes, catheters, a specialized wheelchair and all the unforeseen and ongoing expenses of convalescent care.
From Novica’s global family of artisans and art-lovers to the remote villages of the Huichol people, we discover a shared love of community, a commitment to preservation, and the chance to make a difference in times of dire need.
Shop Giving Tuesday to support critical needs projects like this one and others. You can also make a direct donation towards Miguel's medical costs via the family's GoFundMe page. | | |
