In Jicamarca, Peru, a boy arrived at J. Ingenieros school with more than just his backpack: he was carrying Perla, his little dog, to say goodbye to her.
His father had lost his job, and at home there was no longer enough even for bread, much less to feed a pet that was beginning to show her bones beneath her fur. With a trembling voice, the boy explained everything to the principal while stroking her for the last time. He asked for nothing for himself. Only an opportunity for her.
The principal hugged her and promised that Perla would be fine. The school works with an animal shelter, so the little dog received veterinary care, food, and a safe roof over her head. Today she no longer has ticks or fleas; she is healthy. The sacrifice turned into the best news that boy could have received.