Hello all!
My name is Kursty Castro, my husband Francisco, my sister in law Danny and myself came up with a brilliant last minute idea to make our dream for Monica and Ruben and their 30th wedding anniversary a reality. As we sat pondering how we could afford and plan a refreshing celebration getaway for the two, we realized between the three of us, we just couldn’t do it alone! So we are reaching out to you, family and friends, whose hearts and life stories are connected to this beautiful pair.
It is our hopes that we will be able to raise $1000 to put towards a 2-3 night weekend getaway of their choosing. Together we have envisioned a weekend getaway in a five star hotel in either Tofino or Whistler complete with spa treatments and fine dining. Below you will find the Castro’s story and quickly see why there is so much to celebrate for them this year. We hope that your hearts would be drawn to bless them with this much needed time away. After all they have NEVER had a honeymoon.
On November 16th 1985 Monica Ines Fernandez married Ruben Castro after 9 whole years of dating. If any of you have been blessed to know this wonderful couple you may know that their story began in the heart of a young boy, 12 year old Ruben! Ruben took an interest in Monica at age 12 but it wasn't until they were 14 that they finally made it official.
Shortly after marrying, instead of taking off for a wonderful honeymoon they began making plans that would take them on a harrowing adventure together across 8,613KM to start a new life in Canada. At that time Chile was run by a political dictator, and Ruben and Monica felt that living under such a leader, let alone raising a family in such conditions was less than ideal. They feared for their safety, and wellbeing, and decided that fleeing to a new country was the best choice for a good future.
Ruben was the first to leave Chile on his own. He boarded a flight in Chile and after many long hours landed in Toronto Ontario and identified himself as a political refugee. A few short months later Monica arrived. Monica’s sister had come to Canada prior to their return and was living on the West Coast. After many challenges in Toronto, living on the poverty line they decided to move to Nanaimo to be closer to Monica’s sister.
Starting a new life in Canada came with its challenges, but isn’t it the challenges that really shape us into who we are today. Monica and Ruben have built themselves a beautiful life and family here in Canada. Along the way I think it is safe to say that they have put as much heart and love into the lives of those around them as they have put into their own lives. Through their giving and compassionate ways they have touched so many people.
The Castor’s love story is one, that these days, is very hard to come by. Would you join us in giving back what they have so faithfully given, and help this wonderful couple celebrate this remarkable milestone in their life. Thank you Jesus for having your hand so wonderfully upon these two. To you be the glory God! And thank you so very much to you all for helping us make this possible!
Although their anniversary is less than 1 week away, the opportunity to help with this cause will be open until Friday November 20th. Proceeds above and beyond the $1000 will be gifted to Monica and Ruben towards whatever they need outside of their getaway.
