In Their Own Words: Micah Escamilla

Sara "Sarita" Araujo, 58, of Tumbaco whipes her son Esteban's, 32, chin in their home on Tuesday, January 12, 2010. Esteban was born disabled and Sarita has taken care of him on her own during the three years she and her husband have been separated.

Sara “ Sarita” Araujo has been separated from her husband for over three years. After decades of abuse, Sarita grabbed her three sons and walked out the door. She heard of an organization by the name of El Centro de las Thres Manueles, a service for women and children who have suffered domestic violence. Sarita went there to get help through therapy and support. I went there in hopes of finding a story and that is when I found Sarita.

Shortly after being introduced to her, Sarita graciously brought me into her home, where she lives with her sons, Daniel and Estaban.  Sarita’s middle son Esteban is 32 years old and due to a mental disability, he requires constant attention. Sarita’s story quickly weighed on my heart. She is just one of many victims of violence that Tres Manueles has helped over the years, but she is one who’s quiet strength and kind face will remain with me always. I only spent a few hours with Sarita today watching and photographing her on a typical Tuesday afternoon but I made plans to meet with her again and I can’t wait to see her smile again. I am so grateful to have met her and to have been able to hear her story.