Since birth, we humans have been wired to look after one another. We are biologically designed to be in the company of others and rely on our loved ones when we are in need. But what truly makes us ‘humans’ is when we extend this care beyond our family and friends and elevate the lives of those who require it the most, all the while inspiring the world to do better each and every day.
At the heart of our evolution lies this very idea that we can rise up together and be an example of what it means to provide shelter and a helping hand to those in need. It is evident through countless aiding organizations, fundraisers, philanthropists, homeless shelters, etc., that when humanity does come together, there’s an incredibly positive impact that continues to improve the lives of others.
This exclusive cover of this special issue brings forth such a brilliant story of a brave girl who holds an inspiring tale of believing in humanity, God, and most importantly us. Let’s uncover the story of Audrey Quiros.
IAn Unfortunate Turn of Events
Born on 29th May 2012, Audrey was adopted by Mirla and Roberto Quiros at only 4 months of age. Her father Roberto is a professional school teacher, while her mother Mirlay is an LVN who works at the Children’s Hospital in Los Angeles.
Exhibiting a sweet, mature, pleasant, and outgoing personality, Audrey had a great childhood in Valencia, California, and did very well in school. Speaking both Spanish & English, she also showcased her high intellect by having rich vocabulary and pure intelligence. Her imagination, ideas, and beliefs made her unique, and loved by everyone.
Unfortunately, last year things took an odd turn for Audrey and her family. She was diagnosed with Burkitts Lymphoma Cancer, which is currently in remission. She also had a graft rejection from her first Bone Marrow transplant. Since her body’s first rejection, she has been waiting for the new doner and has been going through extreme chemo in preparation for the new transplant.
Since the diagnosis, both Mirla and Roberto have given themselves to the care of Audrey. Both parents take turns with her, making sure she is never alone despite their full-time jobs as well as parenting two other children. They are a firm believer in God and have instilled the same faith in Audrey that has empowered her to be strong throughout this journey.
An Autographed Ukulele
A blessed and beautiful couple, Joel & Lylliam, have been involved in helping the homeless as well as kids for many years. A Navy Vietnam War Veteran, Joel is a semi-retired businessman involved in the finance industry and his beautiful wife is a retired primary school teacher who has a career span of over 30 years. They had a strong foundation built over many years while living in San Diego and helped countless poverty-stricken people south of the border of Mexico and Nicaragua.
Over the years, both Joel and Lylliam have helped many orphanages in need with everything from food supplies, toys, clothes, medical supplies, appliances, Bibles, witnessed about God and Salvation, and more. They have also helped the homeless in California and still continue to help those who are less fortunate and the ones who are without any shelter or food.
Joel and Lylliam are both firm believers in doing the right by everyone without seeking recognition. “When you give to others, it should be without the left hand knowing what the right hand is doing because we want God to get all the glory and praise, not us.”.
They add, “When people say “thank you,” they say it to thank God, that they are simply tools for His praise and glory.”
Both of these incredible personalities have a good friend whom they have known for many years – Joshua Aaron. Joshua is an International Messianic singer who sings all over the world and is loved by Christians and Jews alike.
Since the release of his first live CD, Joshua’s music has grown to an international level, with as many as 3 million YouTube views of his music videos. His 2012 release “You Are Holy“ won him two Independent Music Awards for his original songs, “Hoshiana” and “You Are Holy” while his latest CD release “Hu Yavo” (July, 2014) soars to new heights, continuing to powerfully connect both the church and Israel through music.
The Ideology of Giving Back
For Joel & Lylliam, the philanthropic ideology is simple and God-driven. According to them, it is God who constantly blesses us.
For them, it is important to give back as it is scripturally correct to help others who are less fortunate. They have also been not well and know what it feels like to face and go through struggle.
In their own words, “In Scripture, it instructs us that the first 10% of what a person receives is God’s, but it does not say that 10% is the maximum, it is the minimum, so we choose to give more because it is the right thing to do in our hearts and minds.”
The two impactful leaders’ advice givers to follow in God’s grace and become a part of His plan as this life is His to begin with. There is no need to be afraid as God promises that everything you give out to the world is returned in abundance. At the same time, having faith in Him is a blessing that should also be given to others. And most importantly, those who give sacrificially are more than those who only give from their abundance.
Audrey and her parents have become such close friends with Joel, Lylliam, Rabbi Gary, Joshua Aaron and his family that he affectionately calls them her Uncles and Aunts like they are her extended family.
Audrey Quiros is an exemplary personality who teaches us to never lose faith in the face of any kind of adversity. With her caring parents, supportive family & friends, leaders like Joel & Lylliam, influencing personalities such as Joshua Aaron, and thousands of followers all over the world, she is not only an incredible inspiration but also a beacon of positive light to everyone going through life’s difficulties.
