Nicknamed "The Hug Woman" by one of her colleagues at the University Hospital of Caracas, Nancy Rosalia Montilla Reyes is a 65-year-old professor and retired nurse whose green eyes light up when she talks about her career. Being a strong-willed and independent person, Nancy firmly believes that being alone is better than being in bad company. As a result, she lived on her own for around 10 years, enjoying her solitude and making decisions according to her own will. However, in recent times, Nancy has rekindled a past love and has been in a relationship with him for nearly two years.
The professor expresses a sense of nostalgia and yearning as she recounts how her life changed drastically when the Venezuelan economy slipped into recession. As a consequence of a series of political decisions made in recent years and the ever-increasing devaluation of the Venezuelan Bolivar, a university professor now receives approximately 13 dollars a month plus some bonuses. This has forced her to completely readjust her way of life and learn how to live with much less.
Before, Nancy used to be able to visit the hairdresser twice a week, go to the gym, and enjoy meals at her favorite restaurant with her family on special occasions. Back then, she could easily foot the bill for ten people sitting at the table. But today, Nancy says she finds it difficult to afford going even alone to that same restaurant.
The effects of time and insufficient investment have caused visible damage to both the hallways of The Central University of Venezuela and Nancy's life. Despite this, the teacher walks down the hallway with her head held high. Disenchantment and hope fight in her chest, but she remains optimistic.
How does it feel to be 72?
Why did you retire or why are you still working?
Why did you retire?
Why are you still working?
It's like being in a relationship; sometimes it's complicated, but the love for what I do makes me stay. Although there are many difficulties, I am passionate about teaching and that keeps me going.
I have been a nurse at the University Hospital of Caracas for 28 years and am currently retired from the hospital, but I continue to teach at the university. Despite being humbled by what I do, I have considered retiring to take care of my 84-year-old mother who lives in another state. However, my students have expressed their dissatisfaction and begged me to stay every time I mentioned my retirement.
I believe that my success as a teacher is measured by my ability to connect with my students. I find great fulfillment in teaching and spending time with young people, which keeps me energized and motivated. When my students show their appreciation by recognizing my efforts, it brings me a lot of satisfaction and reinforces my belief that I am making a difference in their lives.
What do you look forward to?
What is your biggest concern?
Life expectancy 2023
