Update 2023: I have some new information as to where Pablo and his family lived. See below. If you have ideas how to find this family, please contact me.
While riding around the world on a bicycle, Dennis and I got stuck in the mud in the Gran Chaco desert and were rescued by an Argentinian family. Because of this heart-warming story, I was honored to be the Cultural Ambassador to Argentina by the U.S. Department of State. As part of their cultural outreach program, I returned to the Chaco and visited many schools to tell my story.
Through a series of unfortunate mistakes, I lost contact with Ramero. So, myself, the embassy, the media, and even the Governor of the Chaco all searched for Pablo and his family. I especially wanted to find Pablo. I wanted to tell them that their generosity had gone on to create a book, and inspire thousands of children, and maybe even more adults in many different countries.
Unfortunately, we couldn’t find their small village, which wasn’t on my original map. I used a paper map and it wasn’t very accurate as you can see, especially compared to the view on Google Maps. (See below.)
Clues to finding Pablo
Though I met Romero and his family in 2002, and I’m sure Pablo went off to university, I’d still like to get a message to them all to show them what a big difference they made, not only to me and Dennis, but to their country.
I think the best way is to share the feature picture above of the family.
When Dennis and I finally arrived safely in Buenos Aires, we developed my roll of film, printed, framed and mailed this photograph to Ramero. Unfortunately, it was a rainy day, so my picture is blurry. However, I believe they proudly displayed this photo and if we share it, someone in their community might recognize it.
New information 2023: My cycling partner Dennis found his journals in which he noted that they lived in Palmar Largo close to the Pilcomayo River. At the time, they had a Scottish friend living nearby in El Portillo. They lived in an indigenous community that was big enough to have a high school. And Ramero owned a convenience store that Patricia operated.
Here is Palmar Largo, Argentina on Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/y4TLM7WFjRtoEXW37
So, if you happen to be in Argentina, please share this story and the story of how we met, and these photographs.
I’d like to meet Pablo and his family again someday. Miracles do happen. Thanks.
~ Scott
The book inspired by Pablo’s family
More photos of Pablo
