Macaronesian Stories: A Journey of Resilience After a Volcano's Destruction

Three years ago, the island of La Palma, part of the Canary Islands, faced a natural disaster that changed the lives of its residents forever. A volcanic eruption erupted on September 19, 2021, and for 85 harrowing days, the island was engulfed in flames and debris. Thousands of individuals were forced to evacuate, and over a thousand homes, including that of Vicente Leal, were buried beneath ash and lava flows.

Vicente dedicated thirty years of his life saving and building a beautiful home in a picturesque setting, right next to the Cumbre Vieja volcano. His plan was to create a paradise surrounded by the stunning Canary forests with breathtaking views of the ocean. His dream, which he nurtured and developed over the years, was threatened when the lava began advancing towards it, seemingly determined to erase it from existence.

Amidst the chaos, Vicente remained resolute. Rather than succumb to despair, he made a courageous decision. Equipped with only a shovel, he ventured into the volcanic zone, determined to uncover his home. He focused on revealing the chimney, marking a vital symbol of hope and connection to his dream, as it would allow him to locate his house after the disaster finally subsided.

As the months passed, Vicente was still working tirelessly under difficult conditions, removing the enormous amount of dark volcanic ash that had overtaken his property. Realizing the extent of assistance needed, he created a video appeal, sharing his story with the broader community for help and support.

The only Canarian gin company, Macaronesian Gin, responded to Vicente's call for assistance. They launched a unique initiative aimed at resurrecting dreams not just for Vicente, but also for numerous neighbors severely affected by the volcanic devastation. This effort seeks to gather support and funding for those struggling to start over.

Accompanying the initiative was a poignant short film titled 'The Dream that Conquered a Volcano,' highlighting Vicente's emotional journey and the collective support from the community. The film aims to raise awareness and funds for the affected individuals in the archipelago, which has seen volcanic activity for millennia.

In recent events, several public figures and personalities from the Canary Islands have shown their solidarity with Vicente. They gathered for an event in his home, marking the first such occasion since the eruption. Attendees included actors, musicians, designers, and artists who came together to celebrate life and solidarity in the face of adversity.

This gathering not only fortified their resolve to help Vicente and others rebuild their dreams but served as a beautiful reminder of the power of community. The initiative goes beyond simple fundraising; it encapsulates the collective resilience of a people united in their determination to recover from unimaginable loss.

As we look back on these three years since the eruption, the story of Vicente Leal reminds us of the strength of the human spirit. The Macaronesian Stories initiative continues to gather momentum, showcasing the importance of community, support, and hope in the face of destruction. By helping each other, we can overcome even the most challenging obstacles and rebuild our dreams, one step at a time.

For more information or to support Vicente Leal and the Macaronesian Stories initiative, visit macaronesianstories.com or watch the short film on YouTube.