From the moment you meet six-year-old Maria, it’s hard not to be drawn to her smile that’s bright, warm and full of life. She has the kind of presence that lights up a room. But behind that cheerful energy lies a story of quiet strength, deep love and the power of being heard.
When Maria arrived at her local Compassion centre in Brazil at just three years old, staff quickly realised her family faced unique challenges. Both of her parents are deaf and without stable work, meaning there were many days when food was scarce.
Even as a toddler, Maria became her parents’ voice to the world.
“My mother started teaching me Brazilian sign language when I was one,” says Maria. “Now, I translate for my parents wherever they go.”
It’s a big responsibility for someone so young. Maria often interprets conversations with neighbours, shopkeepers and teachers, sometimes even shielding her parents from hurtful comments.
“When people say unkind things, I change them into something nice,” she says softly. “It’s important for me to protect them.”
Despite the struggles they face, love fills Maria’s home. She’s proud of her parents and the life they share. “I love my parents as they are,” says Maria. “But I also wish they could hear and speak.”
A place where she can be a child
At her local Compassion centre, Maria finally has a space where she can simply be a child—free to laugh, learn, and dream.
“The centre gives her the opportunity to express herself, to speak and to be heard,” shares one of her teachers. “She looks for her teacher, our cook, our staff; she just loves connecting with people.”
Here, Maria receives the practical support her parents can’t always provide, like help with reading and writing. She’s thriving in her studies and dreams of becoming a veterinarian one day.
“The staff are always there for me,” she says. “They help me with a lot of things my parents can’t.”
Her teachers describe her as affectionate, curious and wise beyond her years.
“Despite the difficulties she faces, she’s happy—very cheerful and lively! We believe she’ll reach her goals.”
Extending a legacy of faith
Maria’s story is one of hope, love, and transformation. It’s a reminder of how God’s love restores dignity and opens doors — not just for one child, but for entire families and communities.
When you leave a Gift in Will to Compassion, you extend that same love and hope to future generations. Your legacy helps children like Maria find their voice, discover their God-given potential, and walk in faith.
If Maria’s story inspires you, here are three ways you can move with compassion:
You can find out more about how to leave a gift in your Will to Compassion by contacting our team at bequests@compassion.com.au or calling us on 1300 22 44 53.
You can write a free, legally binding Will online through Gathered Here, Australia’s leading online Wills platform. You can start today and leave a legacy of faith that lasts for generations.
If you’ve already included a gift for Compassion in your Will, thank you. Please let us know so we can thank you personally.
