A Curandero's Life and Death

The following is from Alan Shoemaker, close friend of Norma's.

Norma was taken to the morgue yesterday and later placed in her casket in typical Peruvian style, it was closed but there was a window so she could be seen from her chest to the top of her head. She was dressed in her Ceremonial robes and headband, looking very lovely indeed. The house was full, no empty seats. The overflow of people were sitting 5 rows deep in the small alley outside of her house. My wife Mariella and I arrived with two schacapas and I spoke with Norma thru the glass. I didn't realize how quiet everything became and then recognized that everyone was looking and listening to the interaction. I began shaking the schacapas, both of them, and told everyone about Norma's wishes upon her passing that she wanted to have the schapas dancing and singing and rejoicing. So this I did, whistling an icaro for her and everyone. Initially it was difficult as the tears were breaking through but I fought that back on the wishes of Norma and continued the icaro in joy. Suddenly the small children began entering the room and we had around 10 of them, from 4 to 12 years old standing there at the foot of her casket. I broke the schacapas into smaller portions and gave each portion to a child, and as I did so, I called them shaman. This was really beautiful. Suddenly all the children began shaking the schacapas in rhythm... incredible. So I used this rhythm to do yet another icaro for Norma, all the children were smiling and laughing and so were all the attendees. Truly amazing and a wonderful sight for all to see and hear. Norma's son Antonio came up and gave me a comforting pat on the shoulder, I then called for two cases of beer and soda pop be delived and given to everyone. LOL and the children continued playing the schacapas. Norma will be buried tomorrow at Noon. Such a fine loving lady and healer. God graced us all with her presence and may we continue to carry that gift with us forever.