Veronica! Health Reform Activist of Costa Rica

Veronica Gordon, her husband Delroy and their children have been a mainstay of Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica for decades. Veronica's Place, a family owned and run bed and breakfast/hotel in the heart of Puerto Viejo. Veronica's Place offers a quiet retreat just a short walk from the busy tourists traffic enjoying the restaurants, shops and beaches. I met Veronica and her family a year ago while visiting Puerto Viejo to spend a month with my family. My family owns and operates The Lazy Mon Beach Bar and Restaurant. They also own The Lazy Loft, a hostel for backpackers and young adventure seekers. At the time of my visit, I was recovering from a second surgery from a bout with breast cancer. Considering my need for quiet times of rest of restoration, my son and grandson sought a place for me to stay that would be less touristy. They found Veronica's Place. It was perfect! I loved my stay and I discovered friendship and fellowship in Veronica and her family.

This year, my visit allowed me to reconnect with Veronica. This time, I stayed at the home of my son, his wife and my amazing grandson. However, just a short walk from Veronica's Place, I was able to once again spend time with Veronica and her husband, Delroy.

On one of my firsts mornings of my visit this year, I met with Veronica. I was able to enjoy enriching fellowship and the "Wisdom of Veronica."

"It is early in the day and the Costa Rica sounds gently fill the air. The chirping of the birds and the sounds of people moving quietly in the distance are a reminder that God has granted the blessing of a new day to cherish.

Veronica sits in a rocking chair on her tiled, open air porch. She speaks like the gentle sounds surrounding her. Without effort and with ease, she speaks of the joy of spending one day at a time with her sweet Jesus. I listen and I am blessed. She tells of the morning blessings of air, nourishment, exercise, sunlight and other elements that make life a joy. This was just an introduction to several conversations to come. Excerpts of these conversations will be shared in part here, in future entries. In the meantime, you can learn more about Veronica Gordon, her life, and her mission for health care reform in her book entitled, "Veronica's Table" by Ruth C. Chapman and Veronica Gordon available on Amazon.com.