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Miguel RestrepoColombian homeless man living in a well for 22 years
Country:
 Colombia |
Content:
- A Biography of Miguel Restrepo
- A Life on the Edge
- A Home in the Sewer
- A Fragile Home
- Contentment Amidst Fear
A Biography of Miguel Restrepo
Miguel Restrepo is a 62-year-old Colombian homeless man who has been living in a sewerage system in the city of Medellin for the past 22 years. When Miguel emerges from the sewer, many mistake him for a plumber who has been working in the area, but in reality, he and his wife have made this sewer their home. Curious passersby who peek into the open sewer can see a peaceful domestic scene - the couple relaxing on a bed with their faithful dog by their side.
A Life on the Edge
Miguel Restrepo and his wife, Maria Garcia, found themselves on the streets of Medellin 22 years ago. It is said that both Miguel and Maria were long-time drug addicts, and their destructive lifestyle eventually led them to homelessness. However, when they found themselves with no means of survival, they realized the gravity of their situation. After some time spent sleeping in various places, they stumbled upon an abandoned sewerage system on the outskirts of Medellin. This place became their home for more than two decades.
A Home in the Sewer
Though Miguel and Maria's new home was not spacious, they managed to make it livable. They found and brought a bed and a table into the sewer, along with some other pieces of furniture. Over time, they even acquired a television to pass the long evenings. Their room in the sewer is only 2 meters long and 1.5 meters wide, with a low, sloping ceiling. They use their living space efficiently, with no extras. The circular opening of the sewer serves as their window and door, which they cover with cardboard at night. Miguel built shelves on the walls and above the bed to store their modest possessions and clothes. He also managed to bring electricity into their home, with a yellow lamp illuminating the sewer. On particularly hot days, Maria and Miguel use a fan for ventilation. They even made space for their dog, a mixed breed named Blackie, who is allowed to sleep on their bed. To take the dog outside, either Miguel or Maria has to lift it out of the sewer.
A Fragile Home
Officially, Miguel and Maria do not own their home as the sewer belongs to the city. This means that officials could evict them at any moment. However, Miguel and Maria believe that if they have been able to stay unnoticed for the past 22 years, they will continue to do so in the near future. Despite the unconventional nature of their dwelling, Miguel and his wife strive to live "like normal people." They decorate a Christmas tree during the holiday season, maintain cleanliness in their home, and ensure that their dog, Blackie, is well-fed and doesn't beg on the streets. Despite the busy traffic and passersby near their sewer on the sidewalk, Miguel and Maria feel comfortable and have grown accustomed to the noise. They have even received friendly greetings and support from people when a festive Christmas tree and Santa Claus appeared near their sewer.
Contentment Amidst Fear
Miguel admitted in a television interview that he feels much happier today than he did many years ago. However, their greatest fear remains the possibility of being evicted from their makeshift home. Nevertheless, Miguel and Maria continue to live their lives with gratitude and contentment, treasuring the simple comforts of their unique dwelling.
