REMEMBERING CARMEN
COEAS member Carmen Rodríguez, only 40 years old, left us very suddenly on August 19.
This loss, along with the death of Luis Hernán Baca “Mero,” has left a huge hole in the hearts of our friends and colleagues at COEAS, but it has also left one in the hearts of the entire TWP team.
It is hard to believe that good people in this world leave us so early, but we have no doubt that Carmen's legacy will be remembered forever. A woman who loved her family, her friends, her husband, animals, and protecting the environment is an example to follow. She and Mero have left behind a legacy and an example that few leave when they depart.
The entire TWP Mesoamerican Program team had the pleasure of working with Carmen for several years, and it was a privilege to see and feel her love and passion for the mountains. This news left us all in shock, reminding us how quickly life can change and opening our eyes to be more intentional with our loved ones, our work, and our life's mission.
Testimonials:
“Amidst the chaos, indecision, and commotion, Carmen María was that strong, rooted tree that the committee clung to. At the same time, she was that warm smile with which she welcomed us, always followed by a big hug. That's why we weren't surprised to see so many people at her funeral: because she was loyal, a friend, a colleague, a professional, an athlete, and a dog lover. She never helped or loved half-heartedly; she gave her all, like her hug, like her smile, like her friendship. And her absence is felt in everything. I'm still waiting for her to answer me. It's still hard to believe.” - Tania Erazo, COEAS
“If I were asked to talk about love, happiness, and joy, I would definitely talk about Carmen María.” - Manuel Garcia, COEAS
Carmencita was a person who always did everything with very good intentions; she was never malicious. I don't think I've ever met anyone who was such a good person. She never had any ulterior motives. When she did something or talked to people she knew, when she greeted people, she hugged them tightly because she was sincere and that's how she felt. She was always a lover of animals, dogs, and nature... everything she did, she did with a lot of love, a lot of affection, and she always did it from the heart and gave her best. - Douglas Garcia, COEAS
