Those seconds were the worst of my life

They were even worse than the time six years ago when I learned that my husband had died in an accident.

When the earthquake struck Durres, my son and I were at home in our apartment on the eighth floor.  The panic that I felt that I might lose my boy was the most terrifying feeling I’ve ever experienced. I grabbed him and snatched my purse that was nearby.  Running down eight flights of stairs, my head kept hitting the walls; it seemed like they were moving towards me. I felt nothing. My only concern was keeping my son safe.  As soon as we were outside, I just kept checking his head for wounds. I was so grateful; I was in a state of shock, disbelief.  I felt so relieved, but he was just numb.  The smile is not yet back on his face.

Later that night I found a letter from our sponsor who visited us last year. I always keep it with me, in my purse. I don’t get letters from anyone, so it means the world to me. Re-reading this letter warmed my heart.

I don’t know what will happen next but I am glad to know that there are people out there who pray for us and care for us.

Garantina, from Albania who, with her son, are sponsored by donors in Norway

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