Supporting Nurse's Training for Women in Guatemala

For more than 20 years, Crystal Radnitzer has been a faithful friend to the women of Guatemala. Crystal was introduced to the Kateri Tekakwitha Fund by her mother, Sara Stephenson. She, along with her mother, her husband Karl, and her sister, Michelle Steadman, has carried forward a legacy of commitment. Today, she corresponds with her current student, Liliana, sharing in her journey and celebrating her achievements.

This year, Liliana had the opportunity to participate in the Sixth International Congress of the Developmental Pediatrics Association held in Guatemala, focused on Equity and Opportunities for All Children with emphasis on Indigenous and minority communities.

Liliana shared her reflections on this meaningful experience:

"Participating in this congress was transformative for me, especially as we commemorated International Day of People with Disabilities. It reinforced my commitment to advocating for equity and opportunities for all children, particularly those from Indigenous and minority communities who face additional barriers. This experience has deepened my understanding of how we can create a more inclusive future for every child."

Crystal's support has made moments like these possible. Her letters provide encouragement and connection, reminding Liliana that she has a friend walking alongside her.

This year the Fund has six young women like Liliana in nurse's training. The first letters to the Angel Circle members who accompany them have been sent out. The young women who are studying are enrolled in their classes. They have monthly individual interviews with Karyn Choy to mentor them as they navigate the day to day problems they encounter in their studies.  Many are married with children or have other responsibilities which impact their studies.  Karyn supports them as they meet these challenges. 

As we say, ‘Everything is possible with a little help from a FRIEND.”