Last June, Ireen's already difficult life was made worse when her beloved sister Violet died from HIV related causes. Prior to her death, Violet worked as a housekeeper and cook while Ireen took care of her son as well as two of her own children. Now, the responsibility of raising the children and providing for their survival was up to her. Although Ireen was frightened by the overwhelming task she would have to bear alone, she was determined to work hard as a way of honoring her sister who she loved so much.

Today, Ireen rises at 5 am to begin preparing for the day. After collecting and boiling the water and getting the boys off to school, she makes the long bus ride to the job once held by Violet. She cooks and cleans all day and arrives back home around 7pm. Once there, she must again build a fire to boil the water, feed the boys and bathe them. She tucks them in around 10 pm. Fortunately, Ireen was able to meet other members of the Mothers Without Borders sewing club and started work so she could supplement her meager income. Her day ends at 1 am, only to begin again at 5 that same morning.

As hard as life is, Ireen considers herself one of the lucky ones. We feel lucky to know her and to share her beautiful aprons and handbags with the world.