IN THE beautiful country of Peru, the air was thick with humidity, and the scent of rich earth and vibrant flora filled the senses. Towering trees draped in emerald greens formed a great canopy overhead, filtering the sun’s golden rays and casting shadows on the forest floor. The singing of exotic birds and unseen creatures created a delightful melody as if welcoming visitors into another world. It was there in the jungle where Anita Soluna, a clinical psychologist, embarked on a remarkable journey — a journey of compassion, dedication, and selfless service.
The bilingual psychologist’s journey in Peru began with childhood dreams and a passion for serving others. She had always dreamt of exploring the Pyramids in Egypt and the ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru, nurturing an archaeologist’s spirit within her.
“From a very young age, my mother always involved us in donating our clothes and toys. So that was a big part of my childhood. When I was 11, I started doing volunteer work with my aunt. She was working at the Foundation for the Junior Blind.”
A profound quote she encountered in middle school became a driving force behind her unwavering commitment to serve: “I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. What I can do, I ought to do, and what I ought to do, by God’s grace, I will do.”
However, life took her on a different path, so she set aside her desires and focused on her professional career, eventually working for a prominent nonprofit community healthcare organization in Los Angeles.
Despite not being able to fulfill her dream on her 50th birthday, Soluna’s passion for Peru only grew stronger with time. The turning point in Soluna’s life came a few months before her 60th birthday when a chance conversation reignited her burning desire to visit Peru.
A series of events led her to meet Stella, a co-worker who shared her desire to go on a vacation. When Stella suggested Peru as their destination, Soluna was taken aback. Fate aligned as they planned their trip, which included a visit to the Amazon jungle and a cherished stay on top of the mountains near Machu Picchu on Soluna’s 60th birthday.
Little did she know that her journey to Peru would be more than a vacation. It would become a life-changing mission. During her visit to Peru, Soluna encountered many people living in communities along a river tributary of the Amazon, who faced numerous challenges, particularly with healthcare access.
“We went to the jungle, we saw a need, and on the plane on the way home, we had a conversation about what we thought we might be able to do to help.”
Soluna’s compassionate heart led her to return to Peru with the goal of making a difference in the lives of the underserved communities she encountered. Teaming up with dedicated individuals from the Peruvian American Medical Society, Soluna and her friend Stella founded Selva, or “Jungle” in Action (SIA). The program’s primary goal is to provide healthcare solutions addressing the physical, mental, emotional, and physiological needs of these communities.
At first, building trust with the people of the Amazon villages was a challenge, as they had previously experienced unfulfilled promises from outsiders. However, over the past 15 years, Soluna and her team proved their commitment by returning and making positive community changes.
“Over time, to have the people come and hug me or have the kids throw their arms around me is the ‘wind beneath my wings.’ We also have a small team in town to help us with our patients when we’re not there.”
Selva in Action established medical clinics, providing healthcare services, and is currently helping a young woman pursue her dream of becoming a nurse.
Through SIA, Soluna found a second life — a life of serving others and building deep connections with the Peruvian people. She describes the experience as living in parallel universes, where her life in the United States and her mission in Peru co-exist in harmony.
Soluna’s impact reaches beyond healthcare. She also dedicates her efforts to animal welfare, caring for feral cats in her community. Her compassionate nature extends to all living beings, and she embodies the essence of a true hometown hero — a hero who follows her heart, embraces opportunities, and selflessly serves others, making a significant impact on lives and leaving a legacy that will be cherished for generations to come. GN
