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VOL. 2 ISSUE 10 NOV, 2023

BY CARMEN ROBLES

Conversaciones de Salud

E-Newsletter ...serving the Hispanic/Latinx/Latine/Latino/Afrodecendientes/IndigenousLatino and Asian-Latino communities.

DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS NOVEMBER 2023

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T A H IS

On November 2, a magical spectacle unfolds as spirits and humans converge in local graveyards during Dia de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead. Families construct altares, or altars, in their homes adorned with the favorite items of their departed loved ones. The altar's food display is meticulously crafted to feature the deceased's most cherished meals. This vibrant tradition, rooted in a history spanning over 2,000 years, has earned recognition from UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity since 2003. Cempazuchil flowers, commonly known as marigolds, hold special significance during this occasion, believed to guide the spirits back to Earth. Dia de los Muertos is a celebration that bridges the gap between the living and the departed, a poignant testament to the enduring connection between generations

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Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, stands as a vibrant testament to Mexican culture, distinct from Halloween's spooky vibes. Unlike Halloween, which revels in terror and mischief on the eve of October's end, Day of the Dead unfurls its festivities over the initial two days of November, painting the streets with an explosion of color and life-affirming joy. While the theme centers around death, the essence of the celebration lies in demonstrating profound love and respect for departed family members. It's a time when families come together, adorning colorful altars and sharing stories, celebrating the lives of those who have passed with warmth and reverence.

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DÍA DE MUERTOS

In this sacred season of Dia de los Muertos, Conversaciones de Salud by Carmen Robles takes a moment to remember and honor those who have tragically lost their lives to the grip of fentanyl. Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, offers us an opportunity to celebrate the lives of our dearly departed, to remember their vibrant spirits, and to ensure they are never forgotten. As we create our ofrendas, or altars, adorned with marigold flowers, candles, and cherished mementos, we hold a special place for those affected by fentanyl. We recognize the importance of raising awareness about the dangers of this powerful substance, and in their memory, we commit ourselves to educating our communities, supporting those struggling, and working towards a future where no more lives are claimed by this devastating epidemic. This Dia de los Muertos, Conversaciones de Salud stands in solidarity with all families affected, ensuring that the memories of those lost to fentanyl are honored and cherished. Click here to learn more about Minnesota's Fentanyl crisis: The families left behind. 4

DEENILSON PELAYO SANCHEZ APRIL 16, 2002 - DEC 1, 2021 “LET’S GO TO WORK, SWEET CHILD OF MINE!! LET’S GET OUR MESSAGE OUT AND SAVE SOME LIVES.” BY MOM…ALMA SANCHEZ QUIROZ “I miss you, Son. Up to this day I still can’t wrap my head around the fact that you’re no longer here. I still look for you. Even almost 2 years into my grief, I have moments of hopelessness and devastation. I know you’re at peace, while I’m in pieces. My heart is shattered and hurting. Up to this day I still don’t know what the person sold you. I do know that one pill, one simple tiny pill can kill. It’s crucial and vital to have “the conversation” NOW because if you don’t … wait until you see the results of not having it. This is not the place where you want to come and see or “visit” your child. I’m only a desperate mother trying to save someone else’s babies from the same story as mine … I share my grief because Fentanyl destroys everything!’ #VOID www.stopthevoid.org

Heart breaking reality Click here Valley

San Bernardino College, Institute of Public Strategies: Opioid and Fentanyl Forum held on October 27, 2023. Front row: Alma Sanchez Quiroz with daughters: Yareni (panelist), Destiny. Back row: husband, Sergio participating in honor of Deenilson’s passing due to fentanyl Dec. 1st, 2021

VOID: VICTIMS OF ILLICIT DRUGS “Use your voice to touch someone’s heart and save some lives. Great event is the least to say!! My daughter Yareni had the opportunity to speak about the dangers of fentanyl, social media harms and mental Health!! Her very first opioid and Fentanyl forum amongst some amazing community leaders. She’s got a strong voice and she’s using it !!” By Alma Sanchez Quiroz

DEVIN J. NORRING December 19, 2000 - April 04, 2020 Devin was 19 years old when his life was tragically cut short when he became a victim of fentanyl poisoning. A fake pill obtained off of Snapchat that was advertised as prescription Percocet contained enough illicit fentanyl to kill numerous adults. From the time he could hold a football, Devin was always with one in hand. He loved playing football, bmx'ing, skateboarding and fishing. He was passionate about his music. He wanted to be a musician. He wrote and produced several songs that we now cherish. Anything Devin put his mind to, he gave 1000% of himself while mastering it. He was a math genius. Devin could solve the most complex math problems in his head - he would get docked points on his tests for not showing his work. He said, "how can I show my work when the answer just comes into my head?" Devin was an amazing protector of his older sister, Hayley, and his younger brother, Caden. He will never know his niece, Khloe, or his nephew due in January. He would've been an amazing uncle. He loved making people around him laugh; in turn we got to hear his amazing laugh. His cousins, great-grandfather, grandparents, aunts and uncles, and many friends all miss him. We have become strong advocates in raising awareness to the fentanyl crisis that claimed Devin's and far too many angels' lives. Until eternity where our hearts will be made whole upon reuniting with those who left ahead of us. By Bridgette Norring, Devin's mother.

The Devin J. Norring Foundation https://www.dnfhelp.org/home

ZELAYA EBANKS August 18, 2003 - May 12, 2021 Oak Park Heights On the Wednesday after Mother's Day...May 12th, 2021 8:51 AM...My 4 year old daughter Addie & I found Zelaya 17, face down in her bed cold and unresponsive. I was instructed to turn her over and attempt to revive her but Z's body was stiff and blue. Frantically trying to revive her, I was shocked in terror because Z’s face was deformed from how she died face down into her pillow. In a shrieking panic I fumbled to cover her face with a pillow to protect Addie my 4 year old from seeing Z's face. That image of our beautiful girl will forever haunt us. The nightmares, the emotional unrest, the shame and guilt of a parent asking “Where did I fail her?” Addie still asks me why I was screaming and why did her sisters face look like that. She still has vivid nightmares about seeing her sister cold and dead on her bed. Zelaya had chronic nightmares of her own. She had trouble sleeping because she lost several friends to suicide and fentanyl related deaths. She blamed herself for not saving her friends in time. She was overwhelmed with grief.

Continued from page 6 Z's mental health, depression, anxiety, and self-harm skyrocketed because she was constantly on social media engaging in drama, being bullied, and being targeted by drug dealers pushing pills. We waited for 5 months not knowing how she died until finally we found out fentanyl was in her system. In August 2022 a murder charge was issued. We officially found out what happened from a local news article.She had half a pill of percocet in her pocket. She died from taking half a pill. Half a pill that had 9 nanograms of fentanyl in her tiny 5ft 2 in 115lb body. That half a pill was enough to kill 3 or more large adults. The man who sold her fentanyl used Snapchat to target and push drugs on our 17 year old daughter. At this time he's evading the police because the news released the story before they were able to bring him into custody. (Update) As of 9/5/23 The man that sold Zelaya pills is in custody and waiting for sentencing. The pain our family is going through is unimaginable. Z had a heartwarming bond and loved her four younger siblings so much. She was a really good big sister...our little mother hen rushing to help out and too often doing everything for her brother & sisters. The special connection she shared with her brother Xander was incredibly warm and loving. They were best friends. She shares her birthday month with her mother Bree, her sister Aria and a few other family members. Z's golden birthday would have been in 2022. Zelaya was a funny, smart, bubbly, beautiful and kind person. She loved riding horses, music, singing, photography, drawing and hanging out with her friends. She absolutely adored the times snuggling with her Siamese Ragdoll cats, Katniss & Primrose and her golden doodle puppy Griffin who would pee in excitement every time she played with him. She was the type of person that would give anyone the hoodie on her back to help them. She had a big heart.

Z loved her Minnesota, Wisconsin, Cayman & Florida friends & families very much. She aspired to be a veterinarian. Her goal was to graduate high school, go to Century College and then on to the University of Minnesota for their veterinarian program. Zelaya was our ray of sunshine. Our songbird. She is missed dearly every day. Every shooting star, every birthday wish and every time we sing the abc's...we'll be thinking of you Zelaya. Now Z's photo is traveling the country. She's on banners used at events trying to bring awareness to the fentanyl crisis. She's one of thousands displayed at the DEA memorial museum in Virginia. We started a nonprofit FAMILIES FIGHTING FENTANYL TOGETHER to spread lethal drug awareness in schools and help families who've lost a loved one pay for a portion of their funeral costs. www.familiesfightingfentanyl.org

WE HELP FAMILIES & COMMUNITIES SURVIVE THE FENTANYL CRISIS USING AWARENESS PROGRAMS, EMERGENCY FUNERAL FUNDS & SURVIVORS SCHOLARSHIPS.

Dedicated to the ones I love

MARIA EVELYN (TATA) CAMACHO AND ROBERTO CAMACHO, JR.

My maternal sibblings, Maria Evelyn (Tata) and Robertito (as I affectionately called him) were very close. So close that Roberto followed Tata to heavenly glory within five weeks of her departure from this earth. They, along with our brother Luis Mario Robles, Jr., are dancing with our mother Maria Trinidad. But the hole in my heart is now a crater. So big, so deep. Endless with no bottom. Working around fentanyl I am constantly surrounded by wounded family and friends of dearly departed loved ones. In the Latino culture Dia de Los Muertos is a celebration of the lives of those gone to their eternal realm. It seemed only fitting for me to share my love and ease the pain of losing my cherished siblings by celebrating them during this 3 day ritual. I invite you to celebrate your departed loved ones and hope this special edition issue of Conversaciones de Salud guides you through the beautiful ritual of ‘remembrance.’ Thank you all for your beautiful 8 words of encouragement and love.

MARIA EVELYN CAMACHO, (AKA TATA) Goodbye querida hermanita. Say hi to our ancestors (and your son, Bart Jr.) as you feast with them today in heaven, September 25, 2023, the day of your earthly departure. Thank you, Alia, for taking such good care of your mama, for sharing her. Rest in peace, querida hermanita. Free of pain. Diabetes and kidney failure took you away, but you will never ever be forgotten. “This too shall pass” Te quiero mucho/Ñeca (Carmen Robles) UPDATE: Noone could have guessed our brother Roberto would be joining her five weeks later.

Alia Jean & Mom (Tata)

Bart Jr., Alia, Tata

Our niece Angi Burke with Titi Tata

Grandson Chrisitan, Alia & Tata

Pablo, Alia, Chrisitan & Tata

A SISTER’S HEART FELT TRIBUTE CLICK HERE CLICK HERE TO DONATE MOTHER Alia, Tata & Pablo By Alia Jean Garcia… “My mom lost her battle with END STAGE REINAL FAILURE. Mom was loved by many. If you had the pleasure of enjoying her cooking, you definitely were one of her kids! She will be deeply missed. Mom was buried wearing a pretty shimmering black and silver trim dress with a ribbon that tied on the side, and black party gloves. She had a pretty pearl necklace and her red bracelets to give her that little extra humph, I put a rose in her hand. I have her rosary and cross from her casket. It was a pretty white and gold casket with red roses on it. “

by Carmen Robles

Angi & Landon Burke with Uncle Robert

My beloved brother, Roberto Camacho, Jr. left this earth today, Saturday October 28, 2023. He joins our sister Maria Evelyn (Tata) Camacho, who left us September 25, 2023. His passing is a shock leaving an enormous hole in my heart. He was fighting throat cancer; his lungs gave out this morning. Roberto was a lifelong Red Cross volunteer, coordinating blood drives across the nation and in Puerto Rico, including volunteering during 911 and Hurricane Marie. His last blood drive was for UCLA, while he was in radiation treatment. I made his Puerto Rican name tag, and he wore it proudly! I miss you hermano. I will miss your humor, your stories, your unconditional love for me. Until we see each other again! Ñeca. In a heartfelt tribute to a dedicated humanitarian, we mourn the loss of Roberto Camacho Jr., who passed away on October 28, 2023. Roberto was not just a name but an embodiment of unwavering dedication to the cause of saving lives. A strong advocate for blood drives, his passion shone even brighter amidst personal struggles with throat cancer. Roberto's commitment knew no bounds; he was a lifelong Red Cross volunteer, tirelessly coordinating blood drives not only across the nation but also in his beloved Puerto Rico. His legacy is woven into the countless lives he touched, a beacon of hope and compassion that continues to inspire us all. Thank you, Roberto for your endless passion for humanity! To honor his memory, we invite you to read the information on the following page about

BLOOD DRIVES AND DONATIONS.

Doing what he loved: Helping others

UCLA - California Legeslature Assembly ‘Certificate of Recognition’ to Robert Camacho for 12th Annual Blood 10 Drive September 2023

Let’s talk about: In loving memory of Roberto Camacho Jr., a passionate advocate for blood drives, we extend an open invitation to our community to join us in this vital endeavor to save lives.

Donating blood is the most valuable gift we can give. The decision to donate blood can save a life or even several if the blood is separated into its components: red blood cells, platelets, and plasma since they can be used individually for patients with specific diseases. One pint of blood can save 5 lives. A healthy person can restore donated blood in up to 60 days, which is why a donor can donate blood every 2 months.

Few people know the benefits of altruistic donation. In addition to the satisfaction of helping those in need, donating blood has the following benefits: It offers information about our general health. Improves blood flow. Helps purify triglycerides. Reduces the risk of heart attacks and cardiovascular accidents. It stimulates the production of new blood cells in the body. Balances iron levels in the blood.

Must be at least 16 years old Weigh at least 110 pounds Be in good general health Bring your ID Eat within 2 hours ahead of your donation Drink plenty of non-alcoholic liquids Wait eight weeks between whole blood donations *PLEASE CHECK THE REQUIREMENTS FOR EACH TYPE OF BLOOD DONATION

CLICK HERE TO FIND A DRIVE NEAR YOU 11

IN REMEMBRANCE… CUQUI GÁMEZ PASSED AUGUST 5, 2023

It is with great sadness to inform you of the passing of my mother, grandma Cuqui on August 5th! Her legacy is her kind and caring heart and the love she gave to everyone, family, friends, and patients. Grandma Cuqui will be missed. By Adriana Galvan Actualización, Es con gran tristeza informar el fallecimiento de mi mama Güelita Cuqui. quien falleció el sábado 5 de agosto. Su legado es su corazón amable y afectuoso y el amor que le dio a todos, familiares, amigos y pacientes. Se extrañará a Güelita Cuqui. Por Adriana Galvan https://www.gofundme.com/f/cuqui-gamez

JUAN CARLOS SEGURA PASSED SEPTEMBER 2, 2023

My brother Juan Carlos Segura now rests in peace. He left his body on Sunday September 2, 2023, at 5pm. He was a professor in the Department of Cultural Studies at the Universidad Javeriana. Thank you for your prayers, love, friendship, and accompaniment. By Rosita S. Balch Mi hermano Juan Carlos Segura ya descansa en Paz. el dejo su cuerpo el domingo septimbre 2, 2023 a las 5pm. Mi herman era un profesor del Departamento de Estudios Culturales de la Universidad Javeriana. Gracias por tus oraciones, cariño, amistad y acompañamiento. Por Rosita S. Balch

MARIO DUARTE PASSED SEPTEMBER 16, 2023 SOURCE: PIONEER PRESS

Latino community leader, Mario Raúl Duarte, passed away in his home on Saturday, September 16 after long-declining health. Born in El Salvador, he immigrated to Minnesota in 1982 due to the Salvadoran civil war. He founded La Prensa de Minnesota, the first state-wide Latino newspaper in 1991. He served on numerous community boards and hosted KFAI's long-running Latino radio show, Brisas Latinas. A joyous man who loved community, connection, and empowering others, he will be remembered as a pioneer in Minnesota's Latino community, entrepreneur, jefe, soccer enthusiast, history buff, and most importantly, beloved friend, husband, father, and grandfather.

JUDI DE JESUS – (JUDI WITH AN ‘I’) PASSED MAY 1994 FROM AN ANEURISM Mi mama era una enfermera registrada, defensora de la comunidad. Un pionero que desarrolló e introdujo políticas para el cuidado de la salud y los problemas de cuidado de crianza. Por Joe Palermo My mom was a registered Nurse, community advocate. A trail blazer who developed and introduced policies for health care and foster care issues. By Joe Palermo

s o t r e u m s o l e d a í D

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EDITOR OF THIS ISSUE: PAULINA LOPEZ- VALENCIA

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SUPPORTED BY: NEW GENERATION CHURCH Reverend Victor A Martinez