Keysi Abigail: A Champion On and Off the Field

My name is Keysi Abigail. I love eating pasta and I love soccer. I remember when I was little I practiced soccer in the streets near my house, but when the older girls arrived I always left because I was very shy and a little afraid. I remember how I longed in my heart to see a real full size soccer field. At that time in my life it felt like an impossible dream for me.

When I was 7 years old, I was out playing soccer early in the morning before the older girls arrived when a neighbor passed by who invited me to participate in the Vida Plena program. I thought about it and after considering it for a few minutes I nervously asked my grandmother for permission. She said yes!

I was very afraid the first time I went because there were many children, but from that day on my life changed. I had many experiences which I cherish like when we visited Joya Grande Park, a zoo located in another region of the country far from my house. I was able to see animals like the giraffes. I couldn't believe it. It was the first time in my life that I went out on a walk in a place so far away from home. It really was wonderful!

My dream of seeing a full size soccer field also came true. We went on a visit to the National Stadium with the program, and my eyes could not capture the the immensity of the never ending green grass. It was totally different from the little dirt field where I played in front of my house.

Every Saturday Vida Plena takes a group of us to practice soccer, and my passion for this wonderful sport has increased. Through this and all the other activities I feel like a loved girl and much more confident. I realized that I was worth a lot and that God had given me many gifts and talents. Furthermore, I have learned discipline and solidarity as principles of life that accompany me to this day.

I am currently 19 years old, and I volunteer with Vida Plena by helping the younger children with their homework or in the kitchen to prepare food for them. I am also a member of the youth team for a professional soccer team.

I recently graduated secondary school with a degree specializing in Computer Science thanks to an academic scholarship I received from Vida Plena, and I hope to soon be able to enter University and complete a degree to honor my grandmother and to continue serving the Lord with deep gratitude!